For a student thinking of studying abroad, it is important to understand the social behavior of people in the host country. Making the transition from living at home to living in a new country with a cosmopolitan social environment could be a challenging task. Adopting and practicing social mannerism that is compatible with the mannerisms of the inhabitants of host country, would go a long way to towards being accepted to the new community. It is the wish of every International Student, to be accepted by the majority community in the host country. To this end, it is up to the student to learn and follow the rules of the new country and make an effort to blend with the local community.
Sometimes, international students are reluctant move out of their comfort zone, and there is a tendency to ignore the requirement for learning social etiquette practiced in the host country. Such an attitude can be very detrimental in terms of successfully establishing in the new country. Following are a few tips that would be useful for students settle in the new environment.
Be polite, always use the words please and thank you in communicating with people. One of the most important aspects of social etiquette is paying attention to people. Never interrupt anyone mid-sentence and always listen respectfully. If you must then it is important excuse yourself.
If you make mistake be humble enough to say sorry. Always say ‘sorry’ or ‘excuse me’ immediately after sneezing or coughing. Burping in public is not acceptable. If happen to burp it important say sorry or excuse me. when having to navigate through a crowd always excuse yourself.
In general people are addressed by the first name. People in higher authority may be addressed by their title. Making an effort to remember people’s names and address them by their name makes them feel good. Use your full name to introduce yourself and greet the other person saying ‘hello, nice to meet you’ to break the ice.
Learn the lingo of the locals. While the language spoken may be English, it is important to understand local lingo, which may have different connotations to the meaning of spoken word that you are used.
Always wait for your turn in the que. Que jumping is not acceptable and should not be practiced. Be punctual and if you happen to be late take a call to say you will be late. When you arrive late always apologize for being late
Having used the rest rooms make sure you leave the restrooms clean and tidy for the other person
Good social etiquette promotes kindness, humility and consideration. Even the smallest acts like
Holding a door for person entering or leaving after you.
- Letting another person enter or leave before you in a public place.
- Having used the rest rooms ensuring that you leave the restrooms clean and tidy for the other person
can make a big difference.
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