Trying to understand manners & etiquette often feels as though you’re decoding an ancient language—and it’s especially hard for those who grew up in a different time. What used to pass as polite or harmless can actually be quite rude without you even realizing it. But fear not! We’re here to help make sense of it all with 10 accidental ways you’re being rude.
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Overusing Someone’s Name in Conversation
Someone saying your name about a hundred times in a three-minute conversation certainly feels weird. According to etiquette experts, they’re probably trying to be friendly or show they remember you—but it feels like too much. It comes across like they’re trying too hard to make a connection. Or worse, that they’re trying to sell you something.
Checking Your Phone Mid-Conversation
We’re all guilty of checking our phones mid-conversation but it’s actually pretty rude. Essentially, you’re telling the person you’re talking to that your phone is more interesting than this conversation. Ouch! If you really need to check something, give the person a quick “excuse me” to soften the blow.
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Forgetting to Introduce People in a Social Setting
Being left hanging in a group, not knowing who anyone is, is more awkward than words can describe. Not introducing someone makes them feel invisible—like they’re not worth acknowledging. Introducing them will stop them from being a third wheel. Better yet, it shows you care about making everyone feel included.
Making Plans in Front of Those Not Invited
Similarly, talking about that awesome party or outing in front of people who aren’t invited is equally as bad. You’re making it clear that they’re not part of your cool club. According to etiquette experts, it’s better to save those convos for a more private moment so that no one feels left out or hurt.
Not Offering to Help the Host
You know that friend who always shows up & eats your food before leaving without lifting a finger? Don’t be them. Not offering to help out comes across as thoughtless and it’s even worse at a more intimate gathering. It doesn’t matter if you’re helping to set the table or simply asking if there’s anything you can do—show them that you appreciate their efforts.
Hogging the Sidewalk
Everyone hates walking down the sidewalk and coming across a group of people taking up the entire thing. It’s so rude! Etiquette experts say it’s polite to be aware of your surroundings & make room for others to pass as sharing the sidewalk is common courtesy. Nobody wants to play a game of human pinball on their way to grab a coffee.
Not Acknowledging Service Workers
It’s easy to ignore but failing to acknowledge service workers with a smile or a simple “thank you” is plain rude. Whether it’s the barista making your morning coffee or the person bagging your groceries, don’t forget to treat them like a human. Just acknowledging that they’ve helped you shows respect for the work they do.
The Email “Reply All” Faux Pas
While you might be tempted to hit “reply all” to emails without thinking, you need to have a good reason to do so. Otherwise, you’ll annoy everyone else copied on the message! Just think of it like being in a room where someone’s talking loudly on the phone—you’re forced to listen even if it’s not relevant to you. Ask yourself if everyone really needs to see your response.
Not Muting Yourself on Video Calls
Joining a video call & forgetting to mute yourself when not speaking creates a lot of unnecessary background noise. From the mysterious echoes to your dog barking at the mailman, it’s so irritating! Click the mute button as appropriate so that everyone knows you’re being polite.
Leaving Lights On in Shared Spaces
Leaving lights on after you leave a room is rather wasteful—but it’s also inconsiderate. You’re telling everyone that you assume else will take care of it. How self-centered is that?! So go ahead, flip that switch and show some respect for the environment. If that’s not good enough, just remember it keeps those utility bills down, too!
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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