more social skills, please!

While out with some of my college girl friends this weekend, the three of us bumped into some mutual acquaintances — I wouldn’t say we were "friends," exactly, but I was curious about what they'd been up to since I last saw them. I chatted with one of them about her new job and moving... but the other girl just sat there stone-faced, glaring at us.

I tried to draw her into our conversation, but she turned her back on us and started looking at something else! Later in the night, when we were saying goodbye, she barely grunted as we walked away. It felt rude, and basically awkward all around.

The situation got me thinking. It might be just me, but I don't think basic social skills are that hard to practice! I don't expect people to know exactly what fork to use for salad in a five-course dinner, to have read all the editions of Emily Post's manners books from the 1900s, or even to always hold open doors for others. I think the awkward moments my friends and I have can be hilarious, and I have a sense of humor about my own social faux pas. But I'm really sick of people who don't at all care about the way their attitudes affect the people around them.

Practicing good manners in social situations is simple. Why wouldn't you want to do something designed to make interacting with people at school or work easier for everyone involved? Try doing these the next time you're meeting a new person or having a heart-to-heart with a friend:

Look them in the eye. It shows that you're confident and that you care about what the other person is talking about, too!

Slow down. Take the time to actually listen to what the other person has to say.

Ask questions. No need to be nosy, but showing interest in others will make them more comfortable opening up.

Smile! No one wants to talk to the girl sitting in the corner scowling.

It's like what they teach you in kindergarten: be nice to others and they’ll want to be nice to you!

Bisous,
Meg
CG! Editorial Intern