Stand to Show Respect
Most of us are familiar, thank goodness, with the simple courtesies. We know when to say please and thank you and we hold the door for the person behind us. There is another courtesy which, in the past, was as common as those above but we seldom see today. It is the simple, but powerful, act of standing up when we greet someone. Rising when you are either introduced to a person for the first time or when you greet an acquaintance is a gesture that never goes unnoticed or unappreciated.
It is not a gesture reserved for anyone in particular; an older person, a woman or someone in authority. It is a gesture one person makes as a way of acknowledging the worth of another. Standing when you greet someone says he has your respect.
A seminar participant shared her “standing up” story. As a guest at a wedding she approached her table. As she did, one gentleman stood when she introduced herself to him and the other guests. It made such a positive impression on her that she agreed to a date with him. They eventually married.
College admission counselors also admit to being impressed with students who stand upon introduction or when another individual enters the room. They say it indicates the student is aware of others, has respect for his surroundings and for the occasion.
Unless you are strapped into your seat, rise when you greet someone. Stand up for your subordinates, your co-workers, your boss, your children and your children’s friends. Let each know he means something to you by making this almost effortless gesture.
