As you are well aware, at Launch, we are nothing if we are not CLASSY. So we were thrilled when renowned etiquette coach, consultant, public speaker, columnist, television and radio personality Patricia Rossi agreed to take time out from her busy schedule of “Manners Minute” TV segments that air weekly on NBC, CBS, FOX, ABC and other affiliates to keep the Launch Gum Community up to date on Chewing Gum Etiquette. Please enjoy her guest blog below:Chewing Gum EtiquetteAn old song from the 50’s titled, “Does Your Chewing Gum Lose Its Flavor (on the bedpost overnight)?” just popped into my mind as I considered placing my gum on the lid of my drink cup. I know, that’s gross, but I’m at home, alone, and my gum has not yet lost its flavor.
Okay, I’ve reconsidered, because saving my “ABC” (already been chewed) gum doesn’t really make a whole lot of sense. I can easily replace it with a fresh piece once I’ve finished my cool refreshing drink and I won’t have to worry about grossing out anyone, finding the gum fused to my cup, or getting it stuck all over my fingers.
Have you ever considered that there are good and bad manners associated with something as simple as chewing gum? Following are a few basic tips on good chewing gum manners.
• Don’t chew with your mouth open. – Simple enough! Just like eating any other food item, people do not want to hear or see what you are chewing.
• When eating or drinking, dispose of gum. – Do not affix your gum to the side of your plate or cup to save it for later. Discard before the meal/drink and then get a fresh piece once finished.
• Popping gum and blowing bubbles. – Reserve for very informal, non-public, outside settings.
• Dispose of properly. – Don’t drop your gum on the ground, in a water fountain, or stick it under a table/desk. Keep the wrapper and use it to remove the gum from your mouth and then throw into a trash can. If your gum came without a wrapper – a tissue, napkin or small piece of paper will do.
• If you must, use your fingers. – If you are near a trash can, but have nothing to put your gum in, it is more polite to use your fingers to throw the gum into the trash than to spit it straight from your mouth.
Following are places you should avoid chewing gum, particularly in a business setting.
• During phone conversations. – It’s the same as chewing right into someone’s ear.
• On a job interview.
• When giving a speech or presentation.
• While singing.
Have you ever been in the presence of someone who is enjoying their gum far too much and making seemingly unending, juicy sounding, grating on your nerves, gum smacking noises? You would think they could hear the same abhorrent racket that everyone else does and be equally repulsed, but somehow, they are oblivious! Following is a polite way to deal with the situation and/or curb their enthusiasm.
• See if you can tolerate the noise. – If this is a rare occasion, or perhaps someone you do not know personally, it is best to just tolerate the noise and avoid confrontation.
• Move to a new location. – If at all possible, move away from the offending sounds and seek solace elsewhere.
• Politely confront the offender. – If this is someone you have to deal with frequently (a co-worker, family member, close friend), it is best to respectfully explain to them that they may not be aware of the noises their gum chewing creates and that the distraction makes it difficult for you to concentrate. Hopefully they will understand.
Keep in mind, the more casual the setting; the more acceptable it is to chew gum. Still, use common sense and be courteous toward others by keeping your mouth closed when chewing and dispose of properly.
By the way, does anyone really put their chewing gum on the bedpost? W
hat a strange song.
Wishing you much happiness and success!
Patricia Rossi, America’s Etiquette and Protocol Coach, www.patriciarossi.comPS .. make sure to read Patricia's amazing book ... it is mandatory reading for all staff before the office Christmas Party!!
