If someone is 4 or 5 feet behind me, I will hold the door so they can grab it before it closes. However, what if they are 10 or 15 feet behind me. What is a good cutoff point? One day I held the door for someone way behind me. It was awkward!
2007-08-29 12:48:56 · 8 answers · asked by JD 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
How sweet of you!I understand your need to be courteous in this way & feel it is a dying socially polite matter that more should exercise because it is seldom returned.It IS awkward when someone is way back there, especially if they see you & take their sweet time getting to the door.No more than 8-10 feet, I would say.Oh, & have you ever held the door open for one person then suddenly it's like you opened a door to a clown car as 20 people rush through & there you are like"Is someone going to relieve me here?"Talk about feeling awkward as well as annoyed...sheesh!
2007-08-29 13:35:15 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is not the distance that matters, it is the personage.
If the person behind you is your elder, a lady (pregnant or otherwise), a superior, a clergy, an elder stateman/woman, or the like (anyone you would show respect towards), then it is your privilege to hold the door to allow the person through with ease.
When the honor is complete, and the polite, "Why thank you young man/lady" is given, your reply is, "You're very welcome. Have a nice day!"
and....
Have a great day!
2007-08-29 13:29:58 · answer #2 · answered by wyomugs 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I wouldn't think of it in terms of distance, rather in terms of time. If the person would be reaching the door before it would have time to close on it's own (i.e.- slamming in their face), I'd hold it.
However, if the door would have had time to close before they got to it, then it wouldn't slam in their face and wouldn't be rude.
Of course, you should also take into the consideration the person there. If they're not fully able-bodied, I would definately hold the door for them, but waiting no more than 20 seconds.
2007-08-29 16:35:16 · answer #3 · answered by pony girl 2009 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I want to compliment you on your need to be polite. It always makes my day when someone holds the door for me. The act actually lingers with me for quit a while. Therefore I don't think the distance is the question. I think it is how long do you have in your day to make another person of value.
2007-08-29 13:01:08 · answer #4 · answered by thirsty mind 6 · 4⤊ 0⤋
if it's a mom with kids and a stroller in tow, i wait a while longer for them. it's no skin off my nose and they usually appreciate the help. i'll also wait for those who are disabled and the elderly. other than that, about 5-6 feet behind is good
2007-08-29 13:46:05 · answer #5 · answered by racer 51 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The more respect you have for the person, the longer you hold the door
2007-08-29 14:20:31 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would wait 5 seconds and then let the door go so it can close on itself. that's long enough with out being rude.
2007-08-29 12:58:56 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Are they running for the door, then yes hold it for them.
10 second rule for me. I won't wait for a slumper taking their own time.
2007-08-29 13:43:36 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋