Hold That Door, Please! A Guide to Elevator Etiquette
April 30, 2012
Inc.com posted an article last week that shared the importance of courtesy and manners – especially in business. One of the “5 Rules that Matter Now” they referenced was elevator etiquette… and with good reason.
If you work in a tall building, it’s inevitable that you’ll be sharing an elevator with clients, colleagues and business partners–but did you know that some of the most common etiquette faux pas occur in that tiny space?
Many people find the elevator to be an awkward place, and it’s often the etiquette of fellow passengers that really push people’s buttons!
Some simple etiquette elevator tips to ensure everyone enjoys a comfortable ride to the top include:
- When the door opens, wait for everyone to exit the elevator before stepping in.
- If you’re with a large group, wait for an empty elevator.
- If the elevator is crowded when you enter and you can’t reach the button for your floor, ask someone near the buttons to push it for you. Refrain from stretching across someone to choose your floor.
- Once inside, stand as close to the wall or corner as possible to make room for additional passengers.
- Hold the door for people who are rushing to board the elevator. (It’s really just common courtesy.)
- When sharing an elevator with a prospective client, refrain from sharing your “elevator pitch” with him until you’ve reached your destination.
- If you’re wearing a backpack, remove it and hold it in front of you.
- Refrain from using your cell phone while in the elevator.
- When sharing an elevator with clients or other guests, allow them to exit first. And it should go without saying gentlemen, always allow ladies to exit first unless you are blocking the elevator door.
What are some of the most annoying elevator etiquette habits you’ve encountered?
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4 Responses to Hold That Door, Please! A Guide to Elevator Etiquette
Great tips about how to act in the elevator. Especially tip #7 about removing a backpack! Some people just don’t have a clue!
Thanks for your comments, Julia! Yes, people do often forget that a large handbag or backpack can become a weapon in a crowded elevator!
I don’t like the comment “always allow ladies to exit first.” People should exit in the elevator in a logical fashion- in order by distance from the doors. I don’t want to be treated differently than others because of my gender.
Emily Post says that when exiting an elevator the person nearest the door should leave first, regardless of gender.