In this CSE Connect original blog post, Director of Career Strategies, Julie Miller emphasizes the value and power of “holding the door” for others.
CSE 1-2-3: Holding the door can open doors
Did you know that holding the door for others is considered to be both polite and professional in the US, even if you don’t know the person coming through the door?
For students who are new to the United States, it may seem unusual to hold the door for a stranger, or even for a classmate or professor you haven’t met. Every country and industry has its own cultural norms, notes Andy Molinsky, professor of organizational behavior at Brandeis International Business School and author of the book Global Dexterity. If the custom of holding doors for others is new to you, it helps to understand that in the US, this gesture is an important part of leaving a positive impression on the professional and social community around you.
Put another way, “Holding the door for others is considered a polite and courteous gesture in many Western cultures, including the United States,” says ChatGPT. “It is often seen as a way to show respect, consideration, and a willingness to assist others. This gesture can be extended to people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds, reflecting a sense of community and mutual respect.” But, ChatGPT adds, “It’s important to note that while the gesture of holding the door is present in various cultures, the specific cultural nuances and expectations might differ.”
So, it’s good to remember that holding the door for others leaves a positive impression of you! And it’s easy to build a habit of holding the door: in the business school building, across campus, at restaurants, at the mall – everywhere. Here’s how:
- When you approach a door, take a quick glance ahead of you and behind you
- If you see anyone else approaching the same door, open the door and step aside to let them through the door ahead of you
- Alternatively, if you arrive at the door sooner than the other person, go through the door but hold it open behind you until the next person catches the door
Finally, if someone holds the door for you: Smile and say “Thank you!” And if someone thanks you for holding the door, say, “My pleasure!”
