14 obscure etiquette rules you probably break all the time

Guilty of this one? Yes, us too. All the time. But technically, if people are toasting to you, you are not supposed to drink; it’s akin to tooting your own horn, applauding yourself. Oh, and while we’re on the topic of toasting etiquette, “one never clinks a glass in a toast – just raise it,” Grotts says. Why would this possibly be a rule? Well, to prevent the possibility of aggressive clinkers causing glasses to break. If you’re willing to assume that risk, go ahead and continue clinking – but it is technically a breach of etiquette.

Phones are so ubiquitous that you’ll see them anywhere and everywhere, but there really is a time and a place for them. Or, more accurately, a time and a place not for them. Specifically, avoid yakking on your phone when you’re in line at a store or business, ordering at a restaurant, or any other public encounter that requires interacting with someone who is not the person on the other end of the line. “[It’s] disruptive and rude to the person serving you and others in line,” Grotts says.

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Also disruptive? Using your speakerphone in public – or really at any time you’re around other people. “Never keep your mobile phone on speaker while in public,” Grotts says. Even if you’re not having a private conversation, everyone around you shouldn’t have to hear your entire chat.

“Less is more” is the bottom line of this rule, according to Grotts. When you’re applying perfume or fragrance, a little goes a long way, and your scent shouldn’t overpower others, or even come close. “Don’t be heavy-handed with perfume,” Grotts says. “Do a perfume check before you leave the house.” (And, yes, this applies to both men and women.)

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Being proud of your accomplishments is great, even encouraged. But boasting? Not cool. “You have just received a promotion or purchased a yacht, but your friend might be unemployed and doesn’t even have a car,” Grotts says. “Good for you, but be humble about it.” This is especially relevant right now when huge numbers of people are experiencing unprecedented hardships and it’s important to be sensitive to that.

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Source: RD.com