Etiquette Awareness

Tips, suggestions and stories...

Things to keep in mind as you interact with others



"Etiquette is not about
being 'stuffy.'   
 
It's about putting yourself forward in the best possible way, using courtesy and respect for others as your guide, while still allowing your
own personality to shine!

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When temperatures rise, people head for water to cool off. At the public swimming pool, rules are posted and generally followed; if not, the lifeguard and/or staff is likely to step forward and request compliance. However, general pool etiquette is usually not on that posting, so I would like to share some reminders.  
 
Remember you are sharing the space:
  • In the locker/changing area, avoid spreading your belongings halfway across the room; keep everything together in a neat pile.
  • Poolside, keep personal space in mind. Don't haul that chair right next to, or nearly on top of, another person just because you think you'll get better sun exposure.
  • Your belongings really don't need to reside on a poolside lounger of their own, do they? Again, keep them neatly confined to a space near you.
  • Does your neighbor seem engrossed in a magazine, book, or simply relaxing? Then leave her be! You should have brought things to entertain yourself, anyway.
  • Speaking of neighbors ... even if you have exchanged hellos and a few other words about the day, don't ask him/her to spread sunscreen on your back. There are some great sprays on the market that will allow you to do this yourself.

Attire:

  • There is a lot to see at a public pool and excessive skin shouldn't be one of them (this is applicable to both men and women). People of all ages are present, so please dress appropriately.  As for babies, waterproof diapers are an absolute must!

Germs:

  • According to a 2010 survey by TripAdvisor™, the world's largest travel site, 35% of travelers consider it a breach of etiquette to not shower before entering the pool, yet 80% confess to not always doing so.        
  • A shower with soap and warm water will help to eliminate the germs brought into the pool; chlorine cannot do it all.
  • People of all ages, but especially kids, should take bathroom breaks throughout the day. Enough said.  

Noise:

  • "Blasting loud music" is the number one complaint, according to the 2010 TripAdvisor™ survey. There is nothing wrong with enjoying music, but it shouldn't be forced on others.
  • Playful shouts and laughing are acceptable sounds at a pool; unnecessary screaming and shrieking are not. Kids (and adults) should remember that sounds carry over water and keep volumes under control.

Speaking of Kids:    

  • Watch yours, as in they are your responsibility, not the lifeguard's, not a staff person's, and definitely not the responsibility of anyone near you!
  • Kids need to know and follow the rules: no running, no rough-housing, take a shower before entering, etc. It's a matter of safety for them and courtesy for others.  

Clean Up After Yourselves:

  • Whatever snacks and beverages you have brought with you should be disposed of properly in garbage and recycling bins. This includes all wrappers, cans, bottles, empty sunscreen bottles, what have you. No one should know you were there.
  • Remember, there should be absolutely no glass around a swimming pool!  

If you have been invited to someone's home to enjoy a swim, keep these things in mind:

  • Bring your own towel, bathing suit and sunscreen.
  • Help to tidy up after the day of fun.
  • Be sure to express your appreciation; a hostess gift is not out of line and could be anything from a preferred beverage, cookies, a fresh fruit basket or dessert, or something fun for summer time dining.
Remember...

Pool rules are posted to help keep people safe; accidents can happen very quickly and many are preventable. 

People want to relax and have fun in and by the water. Observing pool etiquette will help to make everyone's experience more enjoyable.  
As always, extending courtesy and respect to those around you will make a difference.  
 

Jodi Blackwood
Business Etiquette & Customer Service Specialist
Speaker & Seminar Leader

"Etiquette is about polishing your approach,
not changing who you are."

mailto:jodi@jodiblackwood.com
360-798-4912 
www.jodiblackwood.com