Popular Etiquette Questions Pitched To Debrett's Including 'Can I Recline My Plane Seat?'

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Do you apply your lipstick on your morning commute? Or perhaps you use your mobile phone when out with friends?

Either way, we have it under good authority that what you're doing is wrong - it's not proper, dahling. (Although don't worry, we thought some of these were relatively acceptable procedures in daily life, too).

To clear up any confusion you might have, the experts in modern manners Debrett's have shared their much-esteemed guidance.

Ladies and gentlemen, an education in etiquette awaits...

Everyday Etiquette Lessons

Mobile Phone Use(01 of08)

Etiquette Tips:It's always rude to pay more attention to a phone than a person in the flesh, and they should always be put away when transacting other business – for example, when you're paying for something in a shop. They should be switched off in theatres, cinemas (including during the trailers!), art galleries, or any space where silence is desired. (credit:Hill Creek Pictures via Getty Images)

Smoking E-Cigarettes At Work(02 of08)

Etiquette Tips:E-cigarettes should never be used in a work environment. Vaping shows that you’re not focused on your work and may also be a distraction to your colleagues. (credit:PeopleImages.com via Getty Images)

Social Greeting: Kissing(03 of08)

Etiquette Tips:Many people are unclear on the subject of social kissing. Kissing is not appropriate in many professional situations. On the whole it should only be used among friends, but not on first meeting. An air kiss, without contact, may seem rude or impersonal, so very slight contact is best but no sound effects are needed. (credit:Yellow Dog Productions via Getty Images)

Eating And Applying Make-Up On Public Transport(04 of08)

Etiquette Tips:You should avoid both. It’s inconsiderate to eat smelly food in a confined environment, and applying make-up on public transport can jeopardise that all-important first impression and make you appear disorganised. (credit:DAJ via Getty Images)

Reclining Your Seat On The Plane(05 of08)

Etiquette Tips:This is a common bugbear. It's selfish to recline your seat back during short daytime flights. When travelling by plane always stay within your own designated space and don't hog the armrest. Also avoid kicking the back of the seat in front of you or using it as an aid to standing-up. (credit:Digital Vision. via Getty Images)

Giving Up Your Seat On Public Transport(06 of08)

Etiquette Tips:In a recent university experiment only 20% of London tube passengers offered to give up their seat to a visibly pregnant woman. Passengers should always offer to give up their seat to any individual that is pregnant, elderly, or clearly in need. It is important to remember, however, that it is just as rude to aggressively decline the offer of a seat as it is to not offer a seat. (credit:Blend Images - Granger Wootz via Getty Images)

Blind Copying (BCC) On Emails (07 of08)

Etiquette Tips:Blind copying should be used discerningly as it is deceptive to the primary recipient. Instead, the email should be forwarded on to the third party, with a short note explaining any confidentiality, after its distribution.If blind copying is essential – i.e. for a confidential document where all recipients must remain anonymous – then the sender should address the email to themselves, and everyone else as ‘bcc’ recipients. (credit:Yagi Studio via Getty Images)

Eating Before Everyone Is Served(08 of08)

Etiquette Tips:Is it rude to start eating at the table before everyone else has been served? The simple answer is yes, unless the host or hostess gives their permission for diners to start. (credit:Thomas Barwick via Getty Images)

SEE ALSO:
Dining Table Etiquette: How To Use Your Knife And Fork Properly (Pretty Woman-Style)
Toilet Etiquette At Work: How To Behave In The Office Bogs

The Debrett’s Handbook is out now. For more information visit www.debretts.com.

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