Marie Dubuque: Mind Your Manners!

Marie Dubuque with Manners By Marie wants everyone to know that manners and etiquette aren't old-fashioned or out-of-fashion. In fact, as long as people are interacting with one another, there will be a need for etiquette and just basic rules of behavior.

On tonight's Get It Together Girl Radio show, Marie stops by to talk about manners in fast-paced world. As society changes so do the basics of social behavior.

Here are a few excerpts from her Manners by Marie blog.

Can you be friends with a guy who has a girlfriend?

Yes, but only friends. If he flirts at all, even innocently, you need to change the subject, ignore him, whatever it takes to veer the conversation back to a "friends only" mode. It's easy to start flirting with someone, but look at it like this: If you were his girlfriend, how would you want him talking to other girls? You see what I mean? You know the difference between a conversation between friends, and a flirtation. So, don't do it!

If you feel an attraction towards him, wait until he and his girlfriend are completely broken up. Until then, keep the relationship on a platonic level.

How to handle a co-worker who is on her cell phone all day long?

First, I would talk to her. Explain in a calm manner that you are having trouble concentrating because you can hear all of her conversations. And that just might do the trick! Because the last thing she wants is someone who listens to everything she yaks about!

But if it doesn't work, and she continues to chat away all day long, I would talk to your boss. In fact, I bet you are not the only person who is complaining. After all, she can't be too productive if she is on her phone the whole day.

If the problem still persists, ask to move to another room, office, department...whatever it takes to be able to work in peace!

Should you leave a tip at a partial service restaurant?

You know those restaurants where you order at the counter, get your own drink, and then a server brings you your food? A lot of people don't really know what to do. You have a waiter, but that person doesn't really do much. Yet, they are really friendly when they bring you your meal! (At least in my experience.)

I would leave a dollar on the table...or two if they are really courteous and do something special for you, like grab a high chair, or bring you extra napkins.