Behaving the Right Way

Some people tend to justify any rude behaviour by claiming they have always been like that.  This is rather unacceptable in social gatherings, however.  Rude behaviour is a definite no-no, especially in formal dinners.  People who show such kind of behaviour are a sure turn-off - and most likely, they will no longer get invited to the next party. 

But what accounts for good behaviour? When getting invited to a party, for instance, wear something appropriate.  If it is a formal party, you are expected to be in a formal wear.  If you are wearing a hat, take it off when you are already inside the house.  Wearing hats inside the house is a sign of disrespect.  There is likely a corner where you can hang your hat.  Wearing a hat even while already inside the house is acceptable only if you are a woman and the hat is part of your attire. 

Do not come in late.  If the invitation says the party begins at eight in the evening, be there on time.  But do not come too early, either.  Upon reaching the venue of the party, look for the host and always greet him with warmth.  Thank him for inviting you to his party.  Look around for relatives and friends you know and greet them as well.  Mingle with others.  Do not just stick with your own group.  Socialize and meet other people.  You will be surprised that there may be many others with interesting personalities you can actually be friends with. 

Do not ever make snide comments in an attempt to make small talk or break the ice.  Make decent conversations, but never control them or act in a way as if there is nobody else in the group but you.  Involve others in the conversation.  And listen to them, too.  Appear interested and never yawn in front of them.  Avoid topics that may elicit heated arguments.  Topics involving religion and politics are not very good topics to discuss at parties.  Choose any topic that may be generally known to everyone. 
Always say please when you ask for something, and never forget to say thank you when the need calls for it.

Eat slowly and quietly.  Do not slurp.  Do not make annoying noises while you are eating.  Only get enough food that you can eat. Do not put everything on your plate at once.  And do not eat as if there is no more tomorrow.

When you are, for example, coming down with flu, but could not put the invitation down, do not sneeze or cough in front of people. Turn away from them, and cover your mouth with a tissue.  And do not forget to immediately wash your hands with soap and water.

Do not stay long till the wee hours in the morning.  But stay longer than one hour after dinner is served.  Do not create an impression that you came simply for the food alone. 

With these tips in mind, you are most likely to get invited again and again.  And this means a toast to a more active social life.