When you are in presence of others, be it a large group or just a few friends, you should show them a natural respect and loyalty. This is what they expect when they receive you in their company. So, you should act accordingly.

Your behavior should be frank and cordial so that they can trust you and find your company agreeable, and, consequently, invite you to be with them again.

The opposite of this polite conduct is to start to whisper with someone, covering your mouth secretively to hide the movements and words of your lips. Such action gives the impression you are speaking against your hosts or guests, even if you are not, which can understandably annoy them. It also certainly shows that you lack good manners.

You may speak discreetly if you need to say something important that cannot wait to a friend; you may even whisper some advice to a relative who is doing something wrong or has something awry in his clothing. But do not hide your lips behind your hand.

You should not follow the example of Nicolas Sarkozy, pictured above when he was Minister of the Interior speaking with a colleague.

Don't cover your mouth when whispering.

Elaine M. Jordan

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