As we were growing up, we were probably taught the importance of saying "please," "thank you," and "your welcome" when someone went out of his or her way to do something polite for you. As we got older, we also learned the importance of taking the time to say "thank you" via a card or e-mail to someone who may have helped us along the way. These manners are simple but minding them in key situations can go a long way.
When you have done a favor for someone, have you ever noticed what it feels like when the person you helped does not say "thank you?" Have you gone out of your way to assist someone with an event and not receive any gratitude at all? If this has happened to you, you probably would not be as inclined to help this person again because of the lack of effort shown to express gratitude for your help and assistance. All it could have taken this person was a small thank you note to show gratitude and you would feel different about the situation at that time.
Even when you don't think manners are important, put yourself in the other person's shoes. For example, if a guy was on a date with a girl, how do you think the girl would feel if the guy didn't open the door for her? On the flip side, how do you think the guy would feel if his date didn't say thank you for opening the door or gave him dirty looks for doing so? How do you think one would feel if the date completely ignored the other person and didn't show any appreciation towards the effort being given by the other person to be polite? In cases like this, the smallest of manners can mean a lot and can make a difference.
Below are some tips that can be used in multiple situations whether it is networking, business or even dating:
1) Be Polite To Those Around You - For example, when you are at a restaurant, there is a difference between asking your server for a glass of water and demanding it. You will catch more flies with honey if you politely ask, "Excuse, when you have a moment, could you please get me a glass of water?" then you will with "Go get me a glass of water!" This plus taking a couple of minutes to ask how someone's day is going can help a lot.
2) Opening Doors Can Go A Long Way - It sounds simple but I'll admit I don't feel right if I don't open the door for someone or at least look back to see if someone is behind me when I am about to go into someplace. Taking a few moments to open the door for someone (gentleman, pay attention) can really mean a lot to someone.
3) If You Choose To Spend Time With Someone, Do Not Ignore That Other Person- I know this one sounds bizarre and obvious but you would be surprised how hurtful it can be when someone you want to spend time with just blows you off or doesn't pay attention to you. For example, if you are a high school or college student and if you decide to take a date to a dance or formal, take the time to talk with that person throughout the night, spend time with that person and ask him or her to dance (this last one is key). Imagine how that person will feel if you don't take the time to talk to him or her or offer to take them on the dance floor during that night. Chances are, that person will feel hurt that you didn't spend time with him or her (trust me on this one) and will have the night ruined because of it.
4) The Importance Of "Thank You" - They are only two words and they are simple to say. Make sure to say thank you in situations where it is necessary and don't forget to show your gratitude.
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