Etiquette rules: How do politeness and respect work in everyday life?

Do you sometimes feel like you are surrounded by inconsiderate people? Yet we all benefit from friendly interaction. But in some situations, we also feel insecure ourselves: What is the right thing to do now and what might I be doing to offend someone? Our etiquette expert Silke Schneider-Flaig has the right answers to these questions.

Should I carry old people's bags?

"If an elderly person seems weak or overwhelmed, then you should help carry them. But you have to ask nicely beforehand, because in the worst case, the person might think they are being robbed. There is no legal obligation to help in this case, but it is a sign of politeness and mutual respect."

Clear etiquette rules: When is the smartphone taboo?

"Clearly: in the theater, opera, church or similar places. Especially on a date. As soon as you meet the person, it's best to switch off your device straight away. Only in a restaurant can you point out in advance that you may have to look at your silenced smartphone occasionally if you are expecting a very important message. "

Who do I offer a seat to on a full bus?

Knigge says: "As a general rule, a seat should always be made available for anyone with a baby carriage and/or frail-looking people, for example with crutches or a leg in plaster, on all public transport as well as at bus stops."

Can I touch fruit in the store without buying it?

"If it's wrapped in foil or a net, it's okay. You want to be able to see the price and check that there are no signs of mold, brown spots or similar. Otherwise this is a no-go. But if loose goods are faulty, you can safely put them to one side."

Does Knigge wish you good health when someone sneezes?

"That has changed again and again in recent years. It also always depended - and still depends - on the situation. You can say it in private. Among colleagues too. But preferably only once and not all the time. It's better to ignore a sneeze at business lunches. Otherwise you put the person in a negative spotlight."

At what time in the morning can I call someone?

"That varies. You should differentiate whether it's a private or business call. You can always call companies or public authorities. There may be an answering machine with information on when the contact person can be reached. The rule for private calls is: if possible, don't call before nine o'clock. Personally, I never call anyone privately before ten o'clock. Parents with children in particular usually have a lot of stress in the morning with breakfast, getting the little ones ready for school or nursery ..." Working people should get a good night's sleep at the weekend and therefore not call before 10 a.m. - an important etiquette rule, we think!

Big etiquette test

Here's the big etiquette test - see if you've got what it takes and answer our 10 questions - good luck!

You can also read which etiquette tips work when it comes to money and friendship.

Etiquette rules book tip

Even more tips from our etiquette expert Silke Schneider-Flaig in "Das neue große Knigge - Richtige Umgangsformen privat und im Beruf". 14.99 euros. Compact publishing house