An everyday occurrence for millions of people, few things are as fraught with the potential for social faux pas as riding in a small, confining elevator with random strangers. Never fear, these tips will make you feel less socially anxious.
It’s Here!
While there’s a temptation to cluster directly in front of the elevator doors, avoid it. The people inside have been trapped inside a tiny box, so the last thing they want to see is a wall of humanity poised to spring forward when the doors open. Instead, stand to the right, allowing all the passengers who wish to exit to do so before you board. Move to the back or sides of the elevator upon entering, keeping the space closest to the doors clear so that those behind you can get on easily. Don’t line jump; if you need to wait for the next elevator, do. In fact, if you’re only going one or two floors up or down and are physically able, take the stairs to avoid delaying the other riders. It’s called the two-flight rule.Chess Pieces
Personal space takes on a new meaning inside an elevator; here’s the cheat sheet. Two people? Stand on opposite sides of the car. Three to four people should drift toward the corners. Five or more people should space themselves evenly. Keep your personal space small, arms at your sides, to avoid contact. In any situation where there are three or more riders, it’s best to face the door, so as to avoid accidental and potentially uncomfortable eye contact. If you’ve got a briefcase, stroller, or luggage, keep it as close to you as possible to avoid bumping others; when in doubt, wait for the next car.Pressing the Hold Button
To hold or not to hold, that is one of the most important questions when it comes to elevator manners. If you’re alone, and it won’t make you late for an important meeting, pay the good will forward and hold the door. If the elevator isn’t crowded and someone is running down the hall, shouting “Hold the elevator, please,” do so. If the elevator is packed, however, it isn’t fair to the other riders to make them shrink their personal space further for “just one more.” Never hold the door for more than 20 seconds, even if it’s for your best friend who will be there “in a jiffy.”Serene Ride
When it comes to the volume level, elevators are similar to libraries. Speak softly, and about noncontroversial subjects. Avoid using your cell phone; whatever call you need to make can wait a few more floors. If you’re already on a call, explain that you are boarding an elevator and will call the other person right back; chances are your call is going to get dropped anyway. Don’t tell the other passengers about your recent wonderful vacation, nor treat your “captive audience” to your comedy routine. Teach children to avoid playing with loud toys (i.e., handheld video games) or shouting in these tiny confines. Never let them push all the floor buttons.Eating, Drinking, and Exiting
Taking a discreet sip from your sports bottle doesn’t seem like a big deal—until you get bumped in a crowded elevator and spill it all over the person next to you. Plus, any liquid spilled on the floor increases the fall risk for others. Similarly, refrain from opening that fast food bag and sneaking a few fries. Food odors linger unpleasantly in elevators. Be patient; the doors will open soon. When they do, the two people closest to the door should exit first, or, if it’s not their floor, step out momentarily so that others may exit. If you’re at the back, give others a heads up, “I’m the next floor,” so those around you have time to adjust. Always exit quickly so that the next passengers can board.
