Cindy's answer: It would seem that the cost of a car would be an easy question for a friend because the prices of cars are published in the papers...even used cars values are published in the famous blue book and more. But this also makes it a strange question because why would you want to know? It is generally rude to ask people what they paid for anything. If you are in the market it might make sense to compare notes with a friend but otherwise you might just want to congratulate your friend on this exciting new purchase. Sally's answer: You probably can ask this. It's public information how much a car is worth. If you friend looks a little startled that you ask this, just say you're sorry and move on. Michele's answer: No, I wouldn't. If you really need to know, look it up. Asking people what they paid for anything is crass. Joanna's answer: You can ask, but why are you asking? Are you interested because you like it and are hoping it is a price you could afford? That is all right. Are you being sarcastic because it is a junker and you are rubbing it in. That isn't very nice then is it?... so don't ask. Are you thinking that this friend of yours has a lot of cash available and you want confirmation of that thought? This is rude and nosy so don't ask.
Can I take my dog to my girlfriends parents house for the weekend?
Cindy's answer:
Of course you can't unless you clear it with them. If you think they might mind they probably will. It is often an imposition to bring your dog to other people's homes.
Michele's answer:
Was he invited?
Joanna's answer:
Yeah, was he invited? How well do you know them? Is it a dog you share with the boyfriend/ their son? Do you live together with this pet?
If they have a rambling yard and their dogs like other dogs and your dog doesn't chase their cat, then sure go ahead and ask your boyfriend if he would ask his parents. If it is a first visit I would just say "NO" and see how you all get along without the burden of needing to look after your dog.
I have a dog who is a sweety but is very territorial with other dogs. I have also had other peoples visiting dogs kill my chickens on an overnight... Not fun. I appreciate that most people have better behaved dogs than I have, but I would rather enjoy your company than worry about how my dog will behave with your dog. Let the relationship develop or wait for them to say " why don't you bring your dog along".
How do you shake someone's hand appropriately?
Cindy's answer:
The trick is to return a firm grip without being too forceful. This is the right time to make eye contact, smile and say, "pleased to meet you.", etc.
Sally's answer:
Make eye contact and if you know the person's name, say it in the salutation. Don't be afraid. Smile.
Michele's answer:
Remember, we are in the USA. In other parts of the world, direct eye contact, or touching the other person is downright rude. Check customs and manners appropriate to the area you will be travelling before you embarrass yourself.
Joanna's answer:
Grip their hand firmly. Shake solidly, but not too much. Make eye contact and smile if appropriate. I have been meeting people in adversity lately and a smile hasn't always been appropriate. I hate it when a newscaster gives the happy smile leading out of their coverage of a flood or a gruesome accident. I can get carried away when I am meeting someone who I was looking forward to knowing who might be a close friend of a friend, a relative of a friend, a parent of a friend . Sometimes I am too familiar. You can always bring on the exuberance after a bit of conversation when they have had the opportunity to get who you are. I blow this sometimes.
If I am driving behind someone driving too slow, can I honk at them?
Sally's answer: That would really be obnoxious! It might be a new or elderly driver that you could startle into an accident. Be a little patient and pass them when it's safe. Michele's answer: Not Nice!
Is it impolite to ask how much money my friend makes?
Cindy's answer:
It is tacky to talk about money.
Sally's answer:
Yes, it's none your business but some people like to tell you anyway which isn't polite either.
Michele's answer:
YES!
Joanna's answer:
Yes.
Is it impolite to ask how much rent my friends are paying?
Sally's answer: Probably not - most friends like to share that info if it would be helpful for you. Michele's answer: When you are all looking for housing in the same area, as in a college situation, then it's fine to discuss the cost of rent. Your friend's father just got him an apartment in NYC? and you live in Ohio? Not polite to say, "Wow, you must come from money, how much is that costing?".
Is it okay to suggest deodorant to a friend or coworker who has body odor?
Cindy's answer: I think it is okay if it is offensive to the people around him/her routinely. It is a sensitive subject and should be done in a straightforward and kind way. It is kinder than talking behind their back and avoiding their company.
My friend always interrupts me when I speak ...how do I tactfully make a point?
Cindy's answer: You should try to be less rude than they are being..but let someone get carried away if they are speaking passionately. A phrase like okay" I would like to answer that" may help. Sally's answer: Everyone does this from time to time especially when you get excited about something. If it's happening all the time and really annoying, just interrupt them and say excuse me, can I finish? People don't always know when they're being rude. Michele's answer: I tend to do this, Interrupt that is, sometimes my mind is going so fast I forget and it's into my head and out of my mouth. I don't mind when people ask me to allow them to finish a thought, and I apologize. But then there are those people who just go on and on and only listen to themselves, that too is rude. Those people you can feel free to interrupt with an apology like, I'm sorry, can I say something?
My parents don't like to be around smoker's. Can In tell my friend not to smoke when he/she is around my parents?
Joanna's answer:
I think that smokers need to know that they can't always be running outside to have a smoke. I don't keep my cake on hand to run into the kitchen and grab a slice when I am addicted to sugar. Even alcoholics don't run into the bathroom to have a swig off their flask... Or do they? I think that smokers need to respect the rights of nonsmokers. Some of us have lost loved ones to lung cancer and other tobacco related health issues... many of which can be attributed to second hand smoke, too. I used to like the smell of smoke until it killed my Grampa. I tried it but it doesn't agree with me at all. I think one has a right to smoke, but only at the risk of their own health. I also believe that anything in moderation can be acceptible... if it isn't offending anyone else in the room. If your friends don't mind you smoking then they will come outside and chat, but don't take advantage of their patience and acceptance. It could justy be their codependent nature not taking care of their own comfort and needs.
Tell them that it would make you uncomfortable to have to explain why you got up to the bathroom 5 times during the meal, or had to go outside honestly saying " to have a smoke" during a game of dominoes. If they can't sit for an hour without having to excuse themself for a cigarette, if you are driving and they ask you if you need to pee and then it is obvious that it was so they could have a cigarette and they aren't even using the rest services, then they really have a problem and are they even being inconsiderate of you?.... And if you are a nonsmoker, then kissing a habitual smoker can really be yucky!
Take care of your health.
Should I greet people I don't know well as Mr. and Mrs.?
Cindy's answer:
Today titles are used less frequently then when the moms grew up. If you are not sure I would definatley go with the title and see if you are corrected. Any authority like a teacher or a doctor you would use the title. Everyone likes polite.
Sally's answer:
Always address an adult by their title, ie Mr. Mrs. Dr.etc unless they tell you differently. You can never go wrong this way.
Michele's answer:
Mr., Mrs., Dr., Miss, Ms., Yes they are titles that denote respect, and everyone deserves respect. Unless a person asks you to call them by their first name, stick to respecting them until they give you reason not to do so. Of course, if you have been introduced to them by their first name only,or if they request that you call them by their given name, use it.
What about holding the door open for someone?
Cindy's answer: Always, for everyone. This is a standard act of kindness easily shared and always appreciated. Sally's answer: It is always a nice thing to do-why not? Try to always open the door for the elderly or disabled. Love it when a man opens a door for a woman. Michele's answer: When you approach a door and their is some one behind you who might need help, an older person, a disabled person, a woman with a stroller, be kind, hold the door. If the person behind you is capable you don't need to hold the door open, but don,t shut it in their face. Joanna's answer: This is such a kindness between strangers . I always feel good when some one holds the door for me .
What do I do when an adult is rude to me?
Cindy's answer:
Like they teach you in martial arts, use restraint in almost all situations. You will be left with the most honor in the end. No one has the right to be rude to you and it would be best to avoid any person who interacts in this way. Try to speak to an adult who may know the rude adult for better insight into the situation.
Sally's answer:
Remember to always be a bigger person. Try to deflect what the person is saying but be firm and polite. The old saying," do on to others.." is so true. People usually nicer to people that are come off confident. If they are being rude about your opinion and you believe in it, stand firm and cool. It's way more fun to win someone who is a jack*** with your charm then getting frustrated or insulted.
Michele's answer:
Sadly, many adults expect young people to respect them, but do not extend the same courtesy to the young people they meet. You know them. Your father's friend who loudly states "Why would you do that to your hair, you look ridiculous!" No matter how tempting, Do not say, "At least I have hair!" Answer respectfully, " OH! I'm so sorry you don't like it, I tried so hard to look nice tonight." He will realize he was out of line, and walk away feeling worse then if you had justified his belief that young people with different hairstyles are just plain rude. Keep your sense of humor with these people.
What if I have a friend visiting from out of town and I'm invited to a party, should I bring them to the party?
Cindy's answer: You should ask the host of the party. You might say you simply sorry you don't think you can make it because you have an out of town friend visiting....this way the host can chose to invite them or not without being put too much on the spot. Sally's answer: Ditto, Cyn's answer. Usually the host will extend the invitation unless its a sit down dinner party or some type of formal affair, which if that's the case maybe the friend should visit on another date. Joanna's answer: Please don't invite them yourself , but wait until the host suggests it . " oh I am sorry I can't make it because I have an out of town friend coming this weekend " and then " oh please bring them along " or " then maybe I will be sure to include you next time " .
What's something I should wear on an interview?
Sally's answer: Whether you're a women or a man, you should choose something somewhat conservative and neat. Clean, no holes or rips and definitely not revealing or suggestive. Michele's answer: It so depends on the job you are applying for and the company you are applying to. If you are applying for an office job, a management or middle management position, or a sales position dress conservatively. Men, sports jacket and nice (not jeans) pants, khakis and button down shirt with a tie, women skirt and blouse, dress pants, business suit. Now if you are applying for a more laid-back position, maybe a summer job, or fast food, casual bar setting, it's Ok to dress more casually, but neat and clean are necessities. Make sure your hair is combed and if you are a guy with long hair pull it back. Artsy jobs, galleries, hair styling salons that cater to young people, music stores and venues, they will tolerate, even prefer an edgier look. And if you are looking for a job in a cocktail lounge or Hooters, go with the sexy look.
When exiting a flight at the airport, people are standing in front of the ramp waiting to get on the plane and I have my carry on and can't get by.... What are they thinking?
Sally's answer: Their probably thinking they'd like to get on the flight so they don't miss their connection! Say excuse me and that you're trying to make your connection.
Who should sit in the front passenger seat when there is a group?
Cindy's answer: Whoever says shot-gun first if you are with your siblings or good friends. Often there is one character who claims motion sickness if they don't get the front seat...this is impossible to argue with. Here size matters as well...the biggest person with the longest legs is the one honored with the roomiest seat...but don't sweat the small stuff. Sally's answer: Shot-Gun!!!!! If you ask my girls, its whoever calls it first. This will never get old no matter how old you get. It is a constant battle with your siblings. Michele's answer: Really, The one who gets car sick. Joanna's answer: Whoever called SHOT GUN first. But also I recently am realizing that a lot of us get car sick, so if you know that one of your friends has a tendency to become car sick, then offer the front passenger seat to them. Being from a tall family I know that some of us need the legroom and would be much less comfortable than the ordinary person in the back.
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