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Manhattan Etiquette Teacher Gives Us Her Top 10 Etiquette "Dos" For A More Pleasant NYC
By
Jen Carlson
Published May 16, 2012
Modified May 16, 2012
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By
Jen Carlson
Published May 16, 2012
Modified May 16, 2012
Share
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Do you know the most polite way to walk down a sidewalk? Carrie doesn't.
Patricia Fitzpatrick
We're still celebrating National Etiquette Week over here (did you lock up your bike properly this morning?), and right now you're about to get a lesson from The Etiquette School of New York's Patricia Fitzpatrick, who has created the below top 10 list for us, titled: Top 10 Etiquette Dos for a More Pleasant and Civil New York City.
1. Do keep to the right when walking on the sidewalk, except when passing; and always leave room for other pedestrians to pass if you are walking with a group of friends.
2. Do let others exit elevators, buildings and public transportation before you attempt to enter them.
3. Do hold doors open for individuals following closely behind you or for someone who may need a little help entering a building or public transportation.
4. Do give up your seat to someone who may need it more than you—the elderly, a caregiver with small children, a woman who is pregnant—when you are taking public transportation.
5. Do be mindful of others when you are talking or texting on your cell phone when you are in public places: Save your private conversations for private locations.
6. Do be sensitive to others’ enjoyment at restaurants, movies, or any other performances or cultural events by not talking on your cell phone, keeping your voice low when you are having a conversation, and conducting yourself with a sense of decorum.
7. Do smile and take time to give tourists directions. (We want tourists to think New Yorkers are polite, friendly, and helpful.)
8. Do eat in restaurants or other appropriate places, such as the park—not on buses, the subway, or walking down the street.
9. Do show respect for our city streets and public places: Throw your trash in trash cans instead of littering.
10. Do be polite and use the magic words: Say “Please” and “Thank You” to the waitstaff in restaurants, salespeople in stores, and whenever or wherever the situation calls for a “Please” or “Thank You.”
And of course, there's plenty more etiquette tips you overachievers can follow.
Tagged
etiquette
national etiquette week
patricia fitzpatrick
The Etiquette School of New York
tips
Jen Carlson
Jen Carlson is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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