Etiquette Today: Neighborly Manners
How to bring etiquette into play and stay polite while using digital devices.
Neighborly Manners
Neighbors can be the people in your apartment building, condo complex, townhouse, or duplex. They could be someone who lives on your block, in your neighborhood, or a few miles away. However you define neighbor, these neighborly manners can help you establish and maintain good relationships with your neighbors, whether you become friends or keep a polite distance.
Greet neighbors whenever you see them. A smile, a wave, and a pleasant "hello" are probably the easiest ways to acknowledge your neighbors. Think of these greetings as a great foundational block for good neighbor relationships.
Have an occasional chat. There's a lot you can learn through casual chit-chat. Whether it's over the fence or while out on a walk, be aware of how long your conversation has gone on and look for clues that your neighbor needs to get back to their day. (Are they asking you questions or sharing stories or perspectives? If not, it's a good sign they aren't trying to extend the conversation.) If you don't see signs, keep enjoying the conversation!
Call or text ahead before visiting. Call or text before heading over and ask if it's convenient for you to stop by; not all neighbors happily pop in and out of each other's homes without warning. If you're open to a particular neighbor popping by whenever, by all means, invite them to do so. If you've received such an invitation, it's okay to pop by but be prepared for your neighbor to say they are busy and can't entertain a visit.
Limit visits to a reasonable amount of time. For a drop-by visit, be attuned to what your neighbors are doing, and leave at the first hint that they're ready for the visit to end.
Be considerate with chores and activities. We are all entitled to do our chores and tend to our homes, yards, patios, and balconies. But some chores and activities are noisy or will impact others. It's best to be observant of when our activities might intrude on others' enjoyment of their time at home. As best you can, communicate with your neighbors about loud chores, activities, and events so that, at the very least, you are both aware.
Don't take advantage of a neighbor's expertise or talent. Living on the same street as a doctor, lawyer, mechanic, handyman, or anyone with special skills doesn't entitle neighbors to ask for free consultations or services.
Say thanks for any favors. Always say "Thank you" and be willing to return a favor.
Be respectful of privacy. It can take some effort not to eavesdrop when living in close quarters. Never repeat what you accidentally overhear. Once you realize it's personal, try to find a way to distract yourself or remove yourself from earshot.
Be respectful of property. Always ask for permission before entering anyone's property.
We’d love to hear about your best neighbor moments. One of Lizzie’s was watching the eclipse with her neighbors. Tell us about yours in the comments. If you can’t post here, please head over to Monday’s Podcast Post, where the comment thread is open to all. You can also check out this week’s podcast. Or consider signing up for a Community Membership to post on any Emily Post article.
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Until then,
Lizzie and Dan
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