You know how to sit well. Here is when to stand up instead. Standing to greet is one of the oldest and simplest signs of respect, and it still makes a strong impression.
Key idea
Stand up when an adult or a guest enters the room or comes over to meet you, and whenever you are introduced. Then greet them, and sit again once they have settled or invite you to.
Why it works
Getting up takes a little effort, and that is the point: standing says, “You matter enough for me to get up.” It also puts you face to face, which makes a greeting or a handshake easier. Staying on the couch and waving can look as if the screen or the game matters more.
Worked example: A teacher stops by
Ms. Park comes over to the lunch table to talk to Ruby’s mom at the school picnic. Ruby is sitting. What should she do?
- Stand up as Ms. Park arrives.
- Greet her: “Hi, Ms. Park.”
- Sit down again once the grown-ups are talking or Ms. Park says, “Please, sit.”
Answer: Stand, greet her, and sit again when it is natural.
Worked example: Being introduced
At a family party, Sam’s dad brings a friend over: “Sam, this is Mr. Reed.” Sam is sitting on the steps. What should he do?
- Stand up for the introduction.
- Shake hands if Mr. Reed offers his hand, and say, “Nice to meet you, Mr. Reed.”
- Sit back down when they move on.
Answer: Stand up, shake hands, and say, “Nice to meet you, Mr. Reed.”
Common mistake
Staying seated and waving from the couch. Check: when someone new walks over, are you on your feet for the greeting?
If standing is hard for you, because of an injury or a disability, a warm greeting, a smile and looking up are the same courtesy. Etiquette asks for respect, not for everyone to do it the same way.