How to achieve elevator etiquette

When riding the elevator, it’s important to know a few helpful tips to make your trip to the top, or bottom, a happy journey for all involved.

Make sure you press the button to call for the elevator. I can’t tell you the number of times I have seen people just standing and waiting in front of the Gooch Hall elevator oblivious to the fact that the button is not lit. When the elevator arrives, let people off first before you go barreling into the elevator.

Gentlemen, it’s nice to let the women on first. You will thank me later if you can figure out why I’m saying this now.

Ladies, stand in the back of the elevator so the men are in front of you. You will thank me later if you can figure out why I’m saying this now.

If you happen to be the first person on, take a moment and look for the “Door Open” button. Again, I have seen people get on and watch the doors shut on people because they don’t have sense to push this button until everyone has a chance to get on the elevator.

If you see someone running towards the elevator or hear someone yelling, “Hold the door!” do them a favor and hold the elevator for them. Karma is a good thing, seriously.

If you are going to the top floor, stand in the back. It doesn’t make sense for you to stand in front and have to get out of everyone’s way as they get off on earlier floors than you.

Talking and singing are discouraged in an elevator, unless it’s a song that everyone knows the words to and can sing along with you. Chances are really slim on that one though. If talk is brought up, talk about the weather. It’s a nice, neutral subject and chances are that people will agree that a 69 degree day is really a sweet thing in January.

Don’t make fun of people after they get off an elevator. Their best friend might still be on there. Ouch.

If you are wearing headphones and everyone in the elevator can hear and start singing along, chances are you are going to go deaf sooner rather than later. Turn it down a bit there and your ears will thank you.

If you happen to board the elevator with your significant other, keep the PDA to a minimum. If you can’t, get a room! Go back to your dorm room or apartment and get it out of your system.

If you feel the urge to cough or sneeze, cover that up! As Sweet Brown said, “Ain’t nobody got time for that!” That being sick.

Stick to the Golden Rule and happy elevatoring!