ETIQUESTIONS

Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa

Is there such a thing as elevator etiquette? I always feel super awkward when I enter an elevator, and other people are already in it. What should I keep in mind?

This is such a good question. I am sure this has happened to all of us before when we entered an already-packed elevator. There is such a thing as elevator etiquette, and one tip to keep in mind is that if you are entering a crowded elevator, it’s always best to face the doors. Entering the elevator and staring into someone else’s face can be very awkward and even creepy. You are already in someone’s personal space, so don’t make it worse by initiating potentially unwanted eye contact. Enter the elevator, smile, and then face the doors.

It is finally symphony season again, and I want to make sure I understand the rules of etiquette regarding applause. What should I keep in mind?

Yeah, for the return of the symphony!!! Knowing when and how to clap is one aspect of concert manners that can be a bit confusing. It is always best to wait until the entire piece of music is over before clapping. However, sometimes, it is hard to know when the piece of music is ending. When in doubt, simply wait until lots of other people are clapping. It is ok to clap loudly and enthusiastically, but do not confuse it with cheering on a football team. Simply clap without moving around and yelling. The musicians and your neighbors will appreciate it very much.

I recently attended a fundraising event at a Country Club where our host provided menus for us to order dinner from. I noticed that one of the couples at my table asked for a meal that was not on the menu. They were members of the club and felt like they could order what they wanted. Is it ok to order off the menu when you are not paying?

This is a great question, and it reminds me of how much importance we sometimes put on food when we attend events. Always remember that it is not about the food. When a host provides a menu, they usually spend some time looking at selections and budgets. It is appropriate to stick to the menu. Find something on the provided menu to order, and make sure to thank the host for the selection of food choices.

Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa, Ph.D. is a wife, mother, and educator living in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. She is a graduate of Our Lady of the Lake University with a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies. In addition, she holds an Associate of Arts degree in Education from McLennan Community College, Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas – Pan American, and a Master of Arts in Educational Supervision from the University of Texas – Pan American. Dr. Baggerly-Hinojosa’s current research is focused on servant leadership, gender issues in leadership, and leadership communication. www.leadershipempowermentgroup.com