Having good manners starts with the simple things like opening doors, writing thank you notes and saying hello to the people around you. Being polite and courteous means considering the feelings of others. Above all try to be more conscious of your actions and remember to treat others how you would like to be treated.
Common Courtesy – Everyday we find ourselves in situations where we have the opportunity to show respect and consideration for others by performing simple acts of kindness, such as opening the door. Whether you are in the subway, entering an office building, or exiting a store, make sure to show your manners by opening the door. When opening the door to greet someone at your home or office, make sure to greet guests with a smile and be welcoming.

Treat others with kindness – Henry James said there are three things in life that are important. The first is to be kind, the second is to be kind and the third is to be kind. Recognize that there are distinct personality types and people work, act and communicate in different ways. Be prepared to adjust your communication style to work more effectively with others to built rapport and trust. Remember there can be more than one way to complete a task or reach a goal. Treat others with respect and consideration and remember the golden rule and treat others as you would like to be treated.

Names – Everyone likes to hear their name spoken and it is respectful to use someone’s name and pronounce it correctly. Don’t give anyone a nickname unless it is what they are normally called. If you are uncertain about the pronunciation of someone’s name, ask them to repeat it. This shows respect and consideration. If it is especially difficult, request their business card. Conventional etiquette says you shouldn’t use a person’s first name until he asks you to do so. Depending on the situation, this can make you appear pretentious. If the person immediately calls you by your first name, then follow their lead. If the person is a senior executive, a public figure or elderly, stick with the honorific – Mr. Mrs. Ms.

Importance of eye contact – Sometimes people have difficulty making eye contact. Eye contact is not only a very important part of the handshake and introduction, it is also important when you are having a conversation with someone. Eye contact tells the other person you are listening and makes him or her feel important. You appear to be a better listener and look more confident and in control. You should make eye contact 40 per cent to 60 per cent of the time during a conversation. A person who makes eye contact less than 40 per cent of the time may be considered shy, shifty or lacking in confidence. If you make eye contact more than 60 per cent of the time you could be thought of as critical or even aggressive.

Positive Example – Good manners are based on respect, kindness and consideration for others. Set the example for others by following the rules you learned in kindergarten. Use the “Magic Words,” please, thank you, you’re welcome, excuse me and I am sorry. Follow the “Golden Rule”- treat others as you would wish to be treated.