Gentlemen etiquette is certainly not what it used to be. At first glance, it seems to be wholly a male problem, but that is not nearly accurate. There is a growing number of women out there that consider a gentlemanly gesture offensive.
How dare you open my car door for me? Don’t you think I can do that myself?
No thank you. I can pay for my own meal just fine.
Don’t even think about holding my chair for me. I can sit just fine.
Okay that last one might be stretching the point but you get the idea. It is very easy for a man to confuse chivalry with equality and get it all wrong. That is one huge reason why gentlemen etiquette is going by the wayside in many modern circles...but it shouldn’t.
Chivalry is even more needed today than in days gone by, and can be easily accomplished without sacrificing being called a misogynist. Here are five ways to show gentlemen etiquette that will melt most women on the spot:
Keep your lady outside of traffic
This is so basic that I am a bit embarrassed for men that don’t know it. When you are walking down the sidewalk, your lady should always be on the outside, away from the traffic. This protects them from flying automobiles, splashing puddles and other roadside dangers. Flying mud is serious business and we don’t mind you taking full possession of this.
Take her home...all the way home
Unless your date expressly says otherwise, you are responsible to take her all the way home to her front door safely. Although we want equality, this does not mean we mind being looked after by a nice, strong man. See us home and we will signal what will or won’t come afterwards.
Offer her warmth and first consideration
There is a sincere difference between expecting a woman to not be capable of finding warmth and offering her a simple jacket because she forgot hers. When you have an option to offer, consider her first. This is a very important feature of a good man that is often overlooked.
Introduce her to everyone...every single time
If you bring your lady to the party, it is your job to share all contacts with her and make sure she is comfortable. When you run into someone on the street that you know, introduce her. Gentlemen etiquette requires this at a minimum and you will look like a jerk if you don’t.
Give her choices...unless she doesn’t want them
We women are diverse and like to have our options open at all times. If you take us on a date, make sure you listen to what we have to say. We will send you plenty of signals to thoroughly confuse you. When we are done, we will want something and you best know what it is. (I kid... but you really should listen to us. If you do, you will know when we want you to take charge and when we want to take the wheel.)
