Dear Jacquelyn,

I have an appointment with my doctor and in order to get to the office I’m going to have to use an elevator. In this tiny mobile box, I want to be safe without coming across as rude. Do I say “Hi”? Were should I stand? What are the new etiquette guidelines for using an elevator?

Dear Reader,

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is rewriting the rules of elevator etiquette.

The elevator ride, a previously unremarkable 90 or so seconds, has become yet another obstacle we need to navigate.

We know we should avoid crowded places with poor ventilation and, unfortunately, that describes an elevator quite well. The enclosed space can seem like a petri dish for the coronavirus.

But elevators are a necessity and it’s important to know what to do when the doors open and it’s time to step in.

Elevator etiquette is the same protocol we should be using in other public spaces. Wear a mask, use hand sanitizer, and be aware of how close you are to others.

If an elevator door opens and two or three people are already in it and you feel comfortable, get in. But if you don’t feel comfortable, wait until the elevator arrives again or, if there is more than one elevator, until the next elevator door opens.

I recommend using your best judgment. Because of the tight quarters, stand as far away as you can diagonally in the elevator and stay silent as you ride up or down. Being aware of your surroundings and taking the necessary precautions shows consideration for your fellow passengers and, hopefully, they will be a little more comfortable during the ride.

Your other option is: If you can take the stairs, it’s a good idea. In addition to getting exercise, stairwells usually provide better ventilation.

Given all the unknowns with the coronavirus and all the new awkward social situations, the elevator provides an opportunity to outwardly show consideration for others. In this situation, silence is golden.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training. She is on the board of directors of the National Civility Foundation.

All Rights Reserved &Copy; 2020 Jacquelyn Youst