Looking people in the eye when you talk to them. Shaking hands when you meet people. Standing in a “power pose” (legs slightly apart, hands on hips, arms bent out slightly at the elbows).
If you have to confront someone or put them in their place, speak the truth as you see it, but in moderate language and without recourse to shouting. It is important to find the right time and place for such confrontations. If you want to be a classy guy, then you should treat waiters, strangers, friends of friends, or neighbors with the same level of respect you would give to your close friends.
Try giving simple compliments to people you know, like “Hey Karl, that jacket looks great on you!” You can also practice by saying nice things to strangers, like “What a cute dog you have!” Make sure not to give compliments that might be misconstrued as creepy or focus too much on physical features. For instance, instead of saying something like “That dress really brings out your figure,” try saying something like “You look so elegant today!”
Make sure to congratulate people on their birthday and other important dates. Surprise people by remembering their likes: “Pam, I know you love chocolate eclairs, so I brought some in for the office this morning. ” Ask people about things that are important to them: “Isaiah, you ran the 5k this weekend, right? How did it go?”
As you listen to others talk, nod and use facial expressions to show you’re listening.
For instance, if you’re at a wedding, start by asking the person next to you if they’re enjoying themselves. Ask questions, like “So is this your first time in the area?” to show you are interested in the person. If the conversation progresses, try to find mutual interests. For instance, you could talk about an acquaintance you have in common, or about favorite movies, travel, school, etc. Avoid asking for someone’s phone number or contact info right away. Wait until you’ve talked a bit, to make sure the person is interested.
Call your dates, rather than just texting them. Be on time for dates. If there’s something causing you to run late, let them know. Don’t just meet up with your date and say “So what do you want to do?” Make a plan for the date. Don’t push your date into doing anything they don’t want to do.
Make time to listen to your significant other. Ask them how their day was, for starters. Always remember big dates like birthdays and anniversaries. Try to do something special for them. Go for the little everyday gestures that mean a lot: write love notes, pick up their favorite dinner, surprise them with tickets to their favorite concert, etc.
Saying “excuse me” if you bump into someone. Letting others go first when you’re waiting in lines, at elevators, etc. Not being overly loud when in public. Taking your hat off when you go indoors. Putting your phone down when you’re in line to order something. Showing up on time. Not boasting or complaining about very personal issues on social media.
Holding doors for people. Offering to push elevator buttons, grab things from high shelves, etc. Giving up your seat on a bus or train for someone who looks like they need it.
Take your hat off when at the table. Wait for everyone to be seated and served before you start to eat. Don’t talk while chewing. Don’t lick your fingers. Avoid reaching over others plates to grab things. Put your phone away at the table.
Go for quality over quantity. It’s better to have fewer clothes that fit right, look nice, and will last than to have a closet full of cheap clothes that will wear out fast. You can often find designer clothes at affordable prices by looking at outlets and factory stores. Shop online to get even better deals and sales. You don’t have to completely re-do your wardrobe, but make sure anything you wear is clean and wrinkle-free.
You can even take everyday clothes and class them up. For instance, if you have a graphic tee you love to wear with jeans, throw on a simple blazer over it. Get a decent pair of semi-casual shoes to wear rather than sneakers or sandals.
Stick to gray or dark blue suits for most occasions. Black suits are usually for very formal or solemn occasions. Brightly-colored suits should be avoided. Wear simple ties with your suit. Avoid obnoxious colors or prints.
Have fun with accessories, since they’re a way to show your personal style while still looking classy. For instance, you could throw on a belt with a distinctive buckle, or wear fun socks to add a little flair. Try to dress appropriately for the occasion. For instance, don’t wear sneakers to a formal event. [9] X Expert Source Tami ClaytorEtiquette Coach Expert Interview. 20 May 2021.
