Modern life is filled with many befuddling moments when the proper codes of conduct remain unclear. Luckily, Debrett’s, the authority on etiquette, has unveiled a “What to do” guide to help you think before you faux pas, based on a list of the public’s most frequently asked questions.
To Bcc or not to Bcc
The “Cc” may be a pillar of passive-aggressive internal office email politics, but what of the “Bcc”? Debrett’s label it “deceptive”, and instead suggest forwarding the email to the third party “with a short note explaining any confidentiality”. Got that?
Lip services
One kiss on the cheek? Two kisses on either cheek? A handshake, a hug and then a kiss on the hand you didn’t shake? The appropriateness of kisses-as-greeting can change from social event to social event: a business lunch with your potential new boss, meeting the in-laws for the first time, suburban orgy. For its part, Debrett’s says that kissing should “only be used among friends, but not on first meeting.” Air kisses are ill-advised and are described as “rude or impersonal”, with “no sound effects” deemed necessary. Oh God, I might just stay in …
Vaping at work
With the recent public transport ban on e-cigarettes, where is the best place to vape? Certainly not at your desk at work. According to Debrett’s, it is the equivalent of spending dress-down Fridays standing by the photocopier re-enacting Paris Is Burning and “may be a distraction to your colleagues”, showing “you’re not focused on your work”. Thanks, the MAN.
Phone or friend
You’ve asked the question, “Siri, where have all my friends gone?” after repeatedly refusing to have actual face time with the sentient because you’ve been too busy getting lost in Skyrim. But Debrett’s has only one thing to say: “It is always rude to pay more attention to a phone than a person in the flesh.”
Meals on wheels
They may have pixellated out your eyes and nose, but not your Subway Peri Peri Chicken sub or your sense of injustice. Yes, you’ve been shamed on the internet for eating on the bus – but was it acceptable in the first place? Not according to Debrett’s. “It’s inconsiderate to eat smelly food in a confined environment,” it says. What about applying makeup on the tube? “It can jeopardise that all-important first impression.” Unless, of course, the all-important first impression you want to create is “bitter clown”.
