Learn To Queue Up Correctly

Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 15:44

Etiquette authority Debrett's has come out with a guide on how to queue correctly. Jo Bryant, etiquette adviser listed recommendations on how to conduct oneself while standing in line.

Here are a few things to remember when you line up:

1. Be patient. Remember that everyone"s in the same boat, so avoid displays of exasperation or aggression.

2. Be aware of other people"s personal space and don"t stand too close to the person in front of you.

3. Don"t hold up the queue by failing to notice when it"s your turn.

4. If there are lots of queues, take your pick – but if you choose badly, accept the fact that others will move faster than you.

5. If you are unsure how the queue is working, avoid accidentally barging in.

6. Keep shopping bags or trolleys close you, to avoid creating a big gap that can confuse people trying to join the queue.

7. If you are required to stand back and wait for your turn, don"t move forward until the person in front of you has finished. Never try to hurry them along.

8. Have all relevant documents ready in hand and ensure you can locate your purse quickly to avoid holding people up.

9. If you realise you"ve forgotten something, don"t ask the person behind you to save your place. You will most likely make them feel uncomfortable. Join the back of the line instead.