Why Good Table Manners Show Respect for Others

Simply, etiquette means treating others the same way you want to be treated. But learning etiquette rules can mean much more than this. Proper etiquette helps us identify with important emotions like empathy, sympathy, and compassion. When we are polite to others, we acknowledge that they are important and have the same feelings as we do. With this in mind, we will discuss the reasons why certain conventions of etiquette really help us identify with these emotions. Table Manners Being polite at the table is important no matter where you are. Poor table manners tell others you don't care about their feelings. Further, they can embarrass friends and family. When you share meals with someone you want to impress, whether girlfriend, boyfriend, employer, or client, these are a few tips to get you through: 1) Chew with your mouth closed in a closed and quiet way. Smacking of others is an appetite suppressant for those that have to hear it. 2) If you need to blow your nose or burp, get up from the table to do it. 3) Wait until everyone at the table is seated and has their plates before you start eating your meal. In past centures, the most important person was served first. By waiting, you are showing the rest of the group you respect them as equals. 4) Ask for food to be passed, do not reach across others to grab it. Reaching across shows you do not value the space of others and that your needs are more important than theirs. Further, you reach over their food and can get hair or dirt in their food.