You’re standing in the elevator and everyone is crammed like a can of sardines. You reminisce about that Seinfeld episode where Elaine gets stuck on the subway and starts talking to herself about how the train isn’t moving and starts to get claustrophobic.

You start to feel the same way and wonder when your floor will hit next. You start to notice a particular smell, yet you know it wasn’t you, but you wonder if everyone thinks that it was.

This happens to everyone from time to time and there are ways to avoid them (at times). The simplest way to avoid this is to take the stairs. This, of course, can be a nightmare, since you could be walking up many flights. The other way is to get off on a lower floor and either walk the difference, which can be great for your health (read my post on Walk Into A Better Life for more tips) or wait for the next ride.

If you end up standing right near the buttons, people expect you to be the conductor. Remember in the good old days when people use to work as elevator operators? This is you now! Look at it this way – you can help others to where they need to go. Put a smile on people’s faces and spread the courtesy.

If you see a person running towards the elevator, make sure to hold the door open for them. I’m sure they would do the same for you.

If you don’t want to hold the door for whatever reason, try not to look at the person. Having earphones with you will help even more, since this will let you become “deaf” for a few seconds, even if you are just wearing them.

If you notice that a courier or someone with a large freight want to get in the elevator or is already there when you’re getting on, make sure to move to either side wall, so they can get out easily. Most of the time, they tend to stand in the middle of the elevator, for easier access to exit.

If you have a cold, make sure to cover your mouth and nose, even if you don’t have a tissue. No one wants you to report the weather. That’s what The Weather Network is for.

So the next time you get in an elevator, keep these points in mind. You will make your day and everyone else’s a better one.

Can you think of any more etiquette related items while riding the elevator? Please share your stories and experiences with the rest of us.

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Until next time,

Take care - of your clutter!


Post from: Administrative Assistant Tips