For nearly 250 years, it has advised the British public on the finer points of social etiquette, from how to write a thank you note to what to do when one meets the Queen. Now, Debrett’s has lifted the lid on its very modern guide to good manners for the first time, disclosing the questions that most trouble the British public in 2017. 1. Mobile phone use Debrett’s receive more enquiries about mobile use than any other device. According to Debrett’s, it is always rude to pay more attention to a phone than a person in the flesh, and they should always be put away when transacting other business – for example, when you're paying for something in a shop. They should be switched off in theatres, cinemas (including during the trailers!), art galleries, or any space where silence is desired. 2. Smoking e-cigarettes at work As electronic cigarettes become more popular, so to do the number of enquiries that Debrett’s receive on the device. The most pressing question is whether they are acceptable in the workplace. According to Debrett’s they should never be used in a work environment. Vaping shows that you’re not focused on your work and may also be a distraction to your colleagues. 3. Social greeting: kissing Many people are clearly unclear on the subject of social kissing. According to Debrett’s, kissing is not appropriate in many professional situations. On the whole it should only be used among friends, but not on first meeting. An air kiss, without contact, may seem rude or impersonal, so very slight contact is best but no sound effects are needed. |