Any REAL, Gentlemen out there?

I had a disturbing dream last night, a guy was in my home that I didn’t know and was in my fridge, and relaxing on my couch, picking his nose,  and just chillin’ like he was home. I woke up tense and upset and that got me to thinking; Do men still have values in proper gentleman’s etiquette? Here are a few rules that you may or may not be aware of:

Don’t flaunt your riches
Nobody likes a braggart. Keep your assets vague if you have to discuss financial matters. You can wear expensive things without blowing your own trumpet.

Never let others see you looking at your watch
When you’re amid company, ask for the time or look at your watch only if you’re ready to leave right that instant. When others notice you glancing at the time, it can be interpreted as boredom. Be inconspicuous.

Never groom yourself in public
This includes blowing or picking your nose, chewing your nails, and picking your teeth. These areas should only be ventured in private. Committing these acts publicly shows a colossal lack of class.

Always carry a handkerchief (or two)
If you are wearing a suit, you don’t want to use the stylish pocket square you have tucked ever-so-neatly in your chest pocket. You might be in a hot environment or find yourself in an emotional state. But the best reason to carry a handkerchief has nothing to do with you. It’s the chance to lend it to others that’s commends this practice the most gentleman like.

Be punctual
Perhaps the greatest sign of respect, which is what a gentleman is all about, is being on time. Having people wait for you is the equivalent of telling them that you don’t care about them.

Shake hands firmly
Your handshake should mirror your personality. Make eye contact – you want the other person to think of you as someone resolved, concrete and positive. But it shouldn’t be a test of your strength; don’t hurt them.

Apply constant verbal grace
Use “excuse me” or “I beg your pardon” for all occasions. An extension of politeness, you should always use these expressions, whether it’s to get someone to move out of your way, to apologize for your upcoming journey to the men’s room, or simply to signal your interlocutors that you’re about to start a sentence.

Tip well and discreetly
Only tip when it’s called for, as opposed to those occasions when it’s simply awkward (i.e. hospital nurses or business messenger). When you do tip, don’t be cheap. Respect the 15% gratuity for restaurant tabs and nothing less than $10 for a significantly useful maitre d’.

Project high moral values
Even if you know that deep down you’re not, appear as if you were virtuous. A real gentleman always comes out of everything smelling like a rose.

When you enter another man’s home greet him first
Don’t make yourself at home until you’ve greeted the home owner, and he (or she) has instructed you to.

Acknowledge your acquaintances
Don’t play hide and seek with the people you know, even if you don’t feel like talking to them. Bite the bullet, initiate the mandatory greetings, and get it over with.

Address new acquaintances by their title and last name
Doctor and military ranks are important to the people who have these titles. Mr. and Mrs. should be used for the others (if you’re unsure about a woman’s marital status, use Ms. when addressing her). Wait until they ask you to use their first name before doing so.

Look at your interlocutor
Your attention should always be focused on the person you are talking with. Always look at them when listening as well as when you are in control of the conversation. Again, it’s a question of respect.

Speak, only when you’ve been spoken too or formally introduced
Which is why the phrases “Have we met?” or “Have we been introduced?” are so handy. If you feel like speaking to somebody, find a person the two of you have in common and arrange a proper introduction.

Never smoke in the presence of a lady unless invited to
In this age of political correctness it has almost become a given. While she may not ask you to, make sure you do request her permission.

Offer your seat to women
Classics are always fashionable. Some feminists would certainly have a fit, but most women will definitely value the gesture.

Walk on the street side when walking with a woman
It’s a minor thing but it goes a long way, in case a car jumps the curb or water splashes from the street, you can keep a lady friend safe.

There are many other rules and guide lines out there, but these are enough to make you into a true gentleman.

-Mr.CEO