Introductions and Good Impressions

A woman never rises when a man is introduced unless he's much older, very distinguished, or presented by a much older woman.

Poor Mabel! So eager to make a good impression! Instead, her ignorance of the etiquette of introduction surprises this young man—to say the least! 

A woman never rises when a man is introduced unless he's much older, very distinguished, or presented by a much older woman. She always rises when introduced to a much older woman. If she’s hostess she rises for all introductions.

A man always rises unless at the theater or any place where rising would be awkward. The general rule for introductions is to present a man to a woman, the younger person to the older. — Santa Ana Journal, 1936

 🍽Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia

Even More 1930’s Etiquette Advice

Etiquette simply means good manners or consideration for others. Many people profess to scorn fine manners but they seldom appreciate rudeness in others or inconsiderate conduct.

8 More Hints on Etiquette

According to formal rules of etiquette, a hostess should wait 20 minutes for a tardy dinner guest before beginning the meal without him. - 1936

Etiquette is very important when one is riding in a public conveyance. The well-bred person never attracts attention to himself by being boisterous and offensive. – 1936

It is not considered good practice to spread jelly on bread at the table. The proper way is to put a piece of bread in the mouth and follow it with a small portion of jelly on a fork. - 1936

Many of the common rules of etiquette do not apply in the business office. For instance, when you are seated at your desk you need not rise when your employer or any member of the office staff approaches you. – 1936

When wine is served and there are no servants, the host pours for the guest of honor and passes the bottle to the next gentleman, who serves the woman beside him before passing it on to the next man. The host is the last person served. – 1936

As a general thing the man waits for the woman to recognize and greet him when they meet. Common sense is the better etiquette, however, and after a first meeting man and woman greet each other cordially, without thought of precedence or rules. – 1938

Etiquette simply means good manners or consideration for others. Many people profess to scorn fine manners but they seldom appreciate rudeness in others or inconsiderate conduct. – 1939

There is such a thing as etiquette of the telephone. Don’t continue to carry on a long, intimate conversation with a friend, if you are on a party line, and someone is trying to get the line. She may need a doctor or help of some other kind. – 1939

🍽Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia

1930’s Etiquette Advice

Like all advice, etiquette advice should only be given when it is requested. Make certain to learn the specifics of what wants to know prior to giving said advice.

6 Hints on Etiquette 

It is not advisable to permit children to attend formal dinners. They are too restless to endure the process of serving leisurely courses. – 1937

Though popularly used, the phrase “Pleased to meet you” is not in good taste. “I am delighted to know you” is the preferred acknowledgment. – 1937

If her next dance is promised, a young woman waits for her partner to come to her. – 1938

When playing bridge, one should not touch his cards until the deal is completed. – 1938

Never introduce two persons unless you are quite certain the introduction will be pleasing to both of them. – 1938

Stationery used for business letters should have dignity and quality- White paper is considered the most desirable. - 1938

From the “Grab Bag” feature in the Imperial Valley Press, 1937 and 1938

🍽Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia

A Checklist of Introduction Etiquette

Always stand up to be introduced, or to make introductions.

Check-list on Introductions

1. Always introduce a man to a woman.

2. When introducing two men or two women, always introduce the younger to the older.

3. Say “May I present?” Or “I should like you to know.”

4. Always use proper titles such as Miss, Mr., Mrs., Captain, Doctor, Judge.

5. Shake hands like a man with a man. With a woman, only if she first offers her hand.

6. Always stand up to be introduced, or to make introductions.

7. Look squarely at the person you are meeting. Let your glance be firm but friendly.

8. Say “How do you do” after being introduced. Never say “Pleased to meetcha.”

9. Speak names clearly. Drop a hint if you want people to talk.

10. Catch the name if you can. Ask for it if you didn't. — From “Manners for Moderns”, 1938

Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia