The Worst Etiquette Mistakes You Can Make

Most people know basic rules of etiquette. You know, those rules that say you should never put your elbows on the table or close the door in someone's face. However, some of the worst etiquette mistakes you can make aren't quite that obvious. Once you learn these mistakes, it's easy to correct course and become a more polite person.

You may genuinely want grandkids or think it's innocent to ask someone why they're a server when they hold a college degree, but there are some questions you may not even realize are rude. Think about the implications of your query before starting a potentially touchy topic of conversation.

Sure, you can easily text someone to let them know you're running 20 minutes behind — but that doesn't mean you should allow yourself the opportunity to run 20 minutes behind. If you promise to be somewhere at 1 p.m., make it your duty to be there at 1 p.m. Lateness is definitely one of the habits you should break long before you turn 40.

You may not think much of introducing someone when making small talk, but it's an important life skill. Think about it: You're talking to a friend. Another person walks up and you ask how they've been. That person says great, you say great, and then they're on their way. The first friend just got a dose of what it feels like to be Mr. or Ms. Unimportant, so make introductions. It's an easy way to be more polite.

Of all of the manners you should teach your children, reminding them (and yourself) to say "please" and "thank you" is important. Whenever you ask for a favor or whenever someone extends a small but kind gesture, throw these phrases out. People like to be appreciated, even in this tiny way.

Part of being a good conversationalist is knowing when to stop talking and when to listen instead. Focus on active listening, which means hearing what another person has to say without worrying about your response and listening until your conversation partner has come to a natural stopping point. This is just one of the best ways to build better relationships.

There's an art to tipping, but a general guideline is that when you are at a sit-down restaurant, you tip your server 20% of the pre-tax check. Something that is not OK? Giving your server no tip. Whether or not you like them, tips are an important part of a server's income. So no matter how bad the service is, you should give at least 15%. Not doing so is one of the worst things you can do at a restaurant.

Most people are taught not to speak with one's mouth full from a young age, and it's something that should never be forgotten. Even if someone has asked you a question and you're desperate to answer but you've got your mouth full, finish what you're eating before you reply. Doing otherwise would make you a victim to one of the most common table etiquette mistakes.