Q: What should you do if you’re about to introduce someone and suddenly can’t remember his name?
A: We’ve all been there — that awkward moment when we’re starting to make an introduction but can’t remember a name. Just say, “I’m so embarrassed. I have completely forgotten your name.” If you suspect someone has forgotten your name, one of the kindest gestures you can make is to extend your hand and say “Hello, I’m Jane Smith. It’s so nice to meet you.”
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Q: If I receive lousy service in a restaurant, is it acceptable to withhold a tip?
A: It’s better not to eliminate the tip all together. However, cutting back on the amount certainly is an acceptable way to show your disapproval. If you experience problems during the meal, convey them to the waitstaff or the restaurant manager immediately. If the problem isn’t addressed to your satisfaction, adjust the tip accordingly. If the problem was resolved successfully, tip the full amount, customarily 15% to 20%. If the problem wasn’t taken care of or your server was more than generally unsatisfactory, tipping 8% is the “fairest” monetary expression of great dissatisfaction. According to the IRS, most restaurants report 8% of their income as servers’ tips, so reducing the tip any further costs the server.
This open thread is your space to use as you like. We invite you to discuss current and traditional etiquette. Feel free to ask questions of each other and the community moderators here.
Q: I recently held a dinner with several couples from my neighborhood. We had a wonderful time, but at the end of the evening a few guests lingered long after the party ended. What should I have done?
A: Even the best parties have to end sometime — but some guests just don’t get the hint when it is time to leave. If starting to clean up and other tricks don’t work, it is OK to let guests know that the party is winding down. Tell them that you have had a nice time but that you have to get up early the next day. Or say, “I have to ‘close down’ in 15 minutes,” which allows them to depart in a relaxed fashion.
This open thread is your space to use as you like. We invite you to discuss current and traditional etiquette. Feel free to ask questions of each other and the community moderators here.
Q: Every one of my coworkers has a kid who’s selling something. I’ll go broke at this rate. Any advice?
A: Decide on a budget and make a commitment to yourself; “These are the requests I’m willing to give in to.” So when Trina asks about the wrapping paper her son is selling and that you don’t need, a simple “No, thanks” will do. If they turn aggressive on you, go ahead and cite the company policy against solicitations on the job.
This open thread is your space to use as you like. We invite you to discuss current and traditional etiquette. Feel free to ask questions of each other and the community moderators here.
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The Gift Of Good Manners What Would Emily Post Do?