One of the ways in which to show good manners among people and in polite company is to show respect to those people. Showing respect to others is an excellent way to demonstrate admiration and gratitude as well. Many different ways exist across different cultures for demonstrating respect of varying levels and degrees. Some methods of showing respect in one culture may not convey the same intent
. in another - even worse, some methods may carry an offensive meaning from one culture to another. When traveling to another country, a prudent option is to study the customs of polite behavior of that country. Those polite customs often detail ways to show respect and leave no chance to accidentally express rudeness Some methods of showing respect are nearly universal, and carry over well between cultures. Shaking hands is a common method of demonstrating respect, though some cultures that de-emphasize physical contact (some Asian cultures chief among them) may view this as less respectful and more of a burden. The most universal respect method is to bow to another person, a method widely used even before the handshake gained wide-spread use. The specifics of how to bow may have variations between cultures. It is possible to treat someone with respect even when having a simple conversation with them. Maintaining eye contact with another person is regarded as an excellent way to show them respect. Not interrupting their part of the conversation also shows a healthy amount of respect. Using simple phrases like "please" and "thank you" also properly demonstrate respect in polite company. Treating others with fairness and decency is also an underrated way to show respect for another. Using an even speaking voice without undue shouting or whispering is also a way to demonstrate respect for another person in conversational situations. More Reference Links: http://www.bblocks.samhsa.gov/family/showtell/showingrespect.aspx http://www.alexshalman.com/2007/09/18/10-ways-to-show-respect/
