20 unspoken rules men should know

1. Never shake hands while seated.

Standing up shows respect and participation. It shows that you appreciate the person you are meeting and are fully present in the conversation.

2. Protect those behind you and respect those beside you.

This emphasizes loyalty and honor. Protecting those behind you means protecting your family, friends, and teammates. Respecting those beside you shows recognition of the value and equality of your colleagues.

3. Never insult food when you are a guest.

Showing gratitude and respect for hospitality is important. Criticizing food is disrespectful and ungrateful, especially when someone has gone to great lengths to serve you.

4. Never eat the last bite of food that you did not purchase.

This rule emphasizes courtesy and consideration for others. It demonstrates awareness and respect for shared resources and the contributions of others.

5. Don’t make the first offer in a negotiation.

Letting the other party make the first offer can be a strategic advantage. It gives you insight into their expectations and can help you negotiate better terms.

6. Don’t take credit for work you didn’t do.

Honesty in acknowledging the efforts of others is important. Taking credit improperly undermines trust and damages your reputation.

7. Admitting mistakes and giving credit where credit is due.

Admitting mistakes and recognizing others’ contributions builds respect and trust. It demonstrates maturity and leadership.

8. If you’re not invited, don’t ask to go.

Respecting boundaries and invitations is key to maintaining social etiquette. It avoids awkward situations and respects the host’s intentions.

9. “Always go for the head.”

This metaphorical rule can be applied to many situations, implying that you should strive for excellence and precision in your efforts.

10. Don't beg for a relationship.

Self-respect and dignity are important. Desperation can lead to unhealthy relationships and diminish your worth.

11. Dress well for any occasion.

Being well-groomed and appropriately dressed shows respect for yourself and others. It also boosts confidence and makes a positive impression.

12. Always carry cash.

Being prepared for different situations, including emergencies, is practical. It reflects foresight and responsibility.

13. Listen, nod, and especially make eye contact.

Active listening and nonverbal engagement are essential to effective communication. They show that you appreciate and are paying attention to the speaker.

14. Refrain from expressing anger, no matter what. Anger is a waste of energy.

Anger management is essential to maintaining composure and making rational decisions. It prevents regrets and creates a more positive environment.

15. Whether it is dinner, coffee, or both, avoid leaving your phone on the table. Even if it is face down.

Prioritizing face-to-face communication over digital distractions shows respect and attention to those present.

16. Never take pictures of drinking.

Maintaining a responsible image is important. Taking pictures with alcohol can show unprofessionalism or irresponsibility. It will not benefit you to use your personal image in serious business.

17. Proper grammar will get you far in life. Leave profanity to the uneducated.

Good communication skills, including proper grammar, enhance your credibility and professionalism. Avoiding profanity shows respect and maturity.

18. Ask more questions than you answer.

Showing interest in others by asking questions helps build better relationships and understanding. It also shows humility and a desire to learn.

19. You can tell a lot about a person by their handshake, so make it strong and firm.

A firm handshake shows confidence and sincerity. It is often the first impression you make, so it is important to get it right.

20. Speak sincerely. Say what you mean and mean what you say.

Honesty builds trust and integrity. It involves telling the truth and being consistent, creating a deeper connection and mutual respect. Speaking honestly also means balancing the truth with empathy and tact, making sure your words are always respectful and thoughtful.