Good and bad manners make up the social rules of a country, which are not very easy to learn at times.
British
people are famous for their politeness, self-discipline and sense of
humour. As any other nation, they have their own social customs.
The
British place considerable value on punctuality. People make great
effort to arrive on time. It is often considered impolite to arrive even
a few minutes late. If you are unable to keep an appointment, it is
expected that you call the person you are meeting. For dinner, lunch or
appointments with doctors, lawyers and other professionals one should
arrive at the exact time specified. And it’s better to arrive a few
minutes early for public meetings, concerts, movies, church services and
weddings.
If
you want to visit someone at home, it is a good manner to telephone in
advance. If you receive a written invitation to an event, you should
respond and tell whether or not you plan to attend. It is considered
polite to give a gift to your host, especially if you have been invited
for a meal. Flowers, chocolate, or a small gift are all appropriate. It
will be nice of you to send a thank-you note or to make a telephone call
after the visit.
As
for clothes, one may put on an everyday dress for most visits to
peoples’ homes. However, dress more formally when attending a holiday
dinner or cultural event, such as a concert or theatre performance. Men
should never wear hats inside buildings.
Regarding
greetings it should be said that it is proper to shake hands with
everyone to whom you are introduced, both men and women. Hugging is only
for friends.
Social
rules are an important part of the culture as they passed down through
history. The British have an expression for following these «unwritten
rules»: «When in Rome, do as the Romans do».
Courtesy
Courtesy is a set of good manners which we use in everyday
life. Good manners and rules of behavior at home, work, transport or
other places, are very important in modern society. Even in ancient
times people had to observe certain rules of conduct, which made their
lives easier. A person is seen and evaluated through his behavior and
communication with other people. If someone has a rich and beautiful
inner world he or she demonstrates high level of social etiquette.
Sometimes when we simply say “Hello!” meeting people and “Good Bye!”
leaving, it shows our good manners. It is also necessary to use polite
words in formal situations and when talking to strangers or elderly
people. For men it is a good manner to let women go first. Most people
hold doors for the next visitor in stores, restaurants and other public
places. Young people ought to give place to older and disabled people in
public transport. Pregnant women and little children also have a
priority in such situations. Table manners are another important issue.
While at formal dinners, people usually eat with fork and knife. Soon
after sitting down at the table it is correct to put a napkin on your
lap. Well-mannered people usually know the rules of table setting. When
there is a variety of silverware in front of you, it’s a good idea to
start with the knife, fork or spoon that is farthest from your plate.
Not everyone knows the rules of courtesy. There are also many people who
have bad manners. For example, they talk or laugh loudly in public
places, which is not acceptable. They litter in the streets or cause
inconvenience to other people. They stare at people they don’t know and
never say “Sorry!” or “Thank you!” Such behavior should be avoided if we
want to be a part of civilized society.