Whenever I have the opportunity to meet with students who are about to start work, which I will throughout the entirety of this week, inevitably questions arise regarding dating etiquette. Since the time when I first dated, oh so many years ago, the rules have changed dramatically.

 

When I was a college student, dating etiquette was very gender specific.  Gentlemen invited ladies to lunch or dinner.  Gentlemen held doors.  Gentlemen stood whenever a woman entered a room.

 

Alas, the rules of business etiquette are constantly in flux.

 

Today, instead of focusing on gender-based Do’s and Don’ts, polite people make sure they think about others first. So, if you are a gentleman OR a lady and see someone struggling with a jacket or a coat, offer to assist. The same rule applies when you see someone contending with an armload of packages or papers. Polite people offer to help. As to standing when a woman enters the room or approaches the table, gentlemen, I’m touched when you make the extra effort, but it’s not absolutely necessary. However, everyone—ladies and gentlemen alike—should stand when someone who is elderly, a client, or your boss approaches.

 

After a date or two, if it appears the relationship is one that you do not wish to pursue, be considerate of the other person and his or her feelings. Graciously tell the other person that you’re flattered by their interest but your interests lie elsewhere. If you have been seriously dating for a while, any break-up really must take place via a face-to-face conversation. Simply changing your Facebook status to “Single” does not suffice.

 

Finally, if you are an intern, summer associate or new hire, before you even consider dating a fellow employee, stop and check your employee manual. Some companies strictly ban dating among employees, especially when one member of the pair supervises the other.

 

If you’ve been struck by Cupid’s arrow, enjoy the experience. Nothing beats falling in love. And never forget, remembering your manners will help make you more loveable.