We all know someone who can’t seem to play nice with others. You know the type—they’re the ones who always manage to say the wrong thing, invade your personal space, or make everything about them. While it’s easy to write these people off as just plain rude, the truth is that they often lack some fundamental social skills and courtesies that the rest of us take for granted. If you want to avoid being “that person” everyone dreads interacting with, ensure you’re not guilty of neglecting these basic manners.
1. They Don’t Give Up Their Seat for Others in Need
Whether it’s an elderly person, a pregnant woman, or someone with a visible disability, offering your seat in crowded spaces is one of the simplest acts of kindness. Rude people, however, often stay glued to their spot, prioritizing their comfort over the needs of others. They might pretend not to notice or even fake sleep to avoid the situation altogether. This behavior lacks basic human decency and signals a profound disregard for others.
Offering your seat isn’t about inconvenience but empathy and recognizing shared humanity. When we rise to the occasion, we show that compassion matters more than comfort. Small gestures can make someone’s day and reflect positively on our character, like the random act of kindness that went viral, according to a Today article. Ultimately, kindness creates an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
2. They Don’t Cover Their Mouth When Coughing or Sneezing
In a world more aware than ever of germs and public health, it’s shocking how many people still don’t cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing. Rude people seem to think it’s acceptable to spray their germs into the air, disregarding the well-being of those around them. Whether they’re in a crowded elevator or a busy café, this behavior is not only inconsiderate but also a public health hazard. Covering your mouth isn’t hard—using your elbow or tissue takes less than a second and should always be done according to Very Well Mind.
Failing to do so sends a message that you’re indifferent to the impact of your actions. Beyond protecting others, it’s a sign of basic etiquette that shows you understand communal responsibility. The simple act of containing germs helps maintain a healthier, more respectful environment for everyone.
3. They Don’t Ask Before Borrowing or Using Others’ Things
Rude people often feel entitlement that extends to other people’s belongings. They’ll help themselves to items without asking permission, whether snagging a pen from a coworker’s desk, borrowing a friend’s car without checking first, or even raiding someone’s fridge without an invitation. This presumptuous behavior shows a lack of respect for others’ property and personal boundaries. Remember that just because something is there doesn’t mean it’s up for grabs.
When we ask before borrowing or using something that doesn’t belong to us, we acknowledge the owner’s right to control their possessions and ensure we have their consent before proceeding. It’s also a matter of etiquette, according to Do Say Give. So next time you’re tempted to help yourself to something that isn’t yours, take a moment to check in with the owner first. It’s a simple courtesy that can prevent a lot of resentment and conflict down the line.
4. They Don’t Clean Up After Themselves in Shared Spaces
Shared spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, and parks can quickly become unpleasant when people don’t clean up after themselves. Rude individuals often leave dirty dishes, trash, or messes behind, assuming someone else will handle it. This behavior creates more work for everyone else and shows a lack of respect for communal areas. Taking a few moments to clean up after yourself isn’t just about neatness—it’s about being mindful of others who use the same space.
When you leave a shared area clean and tidy, you contribute to a more pleasant environment for everyone. It’s also important for health reasons to keep a communal space clean and sanitized, according to a blog by Clorox Pro. Ignoring this responsibility, however, sends the message that you don’t care about others’ experiences. A little effort can prevent a lot of frustration and foster a sense of community.
5. They Don’t Make an Effort to Remember or Use People’s Names
Using someone’s name is a small but powerful way to show you value and respect them. Rude people, however, often don’t bother to learn or use names, even after multiple interactions. This behavior comes across as dismissive and impersonal, making others feel unimportant. Remembering and using names is a simple way to build rapport and show genuine interest in others. It’s not just a social nicety—it’s a way to strengthen connections and make people feel seen.
On the flip side, ignoring this practice can alienate those around you and make interactions feel transactional. Remembering someone’s name might seem minor, but it can leave a lasting positive impression and lead to increased social connection, according to The Social Skills Center.
6. They Don’t Offer to Split the Bill or Pay Their Fair Share
Dining out with friends or coworkers can be a fun and social experience, but it can also be a source of tension when it comes time to settle the bill. Rude people often assume that others will cover their share or even stick the group with the entire tab. They might conveniently “forget” their wallet, order the most expensive items on the menu, or simply vanish when the check arrives. This kind of freeloading behavior not only puts an unfair burden on others but also shows a lack of consideration and responsibility.
When we offer to split the bill or pay our fair share, we’re not just being financially equitable—we’re also demonstrating that we value the time and company of those we’re with. When everyone contributes fairly, it fosters goodwill and avoids resentment. On the other hand, dodging your financial responsibility makes you seem inconsiderate and self-centered. Sharing the cost fairly is a simple way to show gratitude and maintain trust in social settings.
7. They Don’t Respect Others’ Time or Schedules
Time is one of our most valuable resources, yet rude people often disregard it entirely. Whether it’s showing up late, canceling plans at the last minute, or monopolizing someone’s day, this behavior shows a lack of consideration. Respecting others’ time means honoring commitments, being punctual, and communicating clearly if something changes. When you’re reliable, you demonstrate that you value others and their effort in planning. Disrespecting time, however, can strain relationships and create unnecessary frustration.
It’s a reminder that being thoughtful about managing your time impacts everyone around you. Punctuality and planning can go a long way in showing respect and fostering positive connections.
8. They Don’t Practice Good Cell Phone Etiquette
In the age of constant connectivity, cell phone rudeness has become an all-too-common occurrence. From loud public conversations to texting during face-to-face interactions, rude people often prioritize their digital lives over their present company. They’ll interrupt meals, meetings, and even intimate moments to take calls or respond to messages, sending the clear signal that whatever is happening on their screen is more important than the people in front of them.
This distracted and dismissive behavior not only erodes the quality of our interactions but also contributes to a culture of disconnection and disengagement. When we make an effort to put our phones away and give our full attention to those we’re with, we’re showing that we value their presence and the opportunity to connect in real life.
9. They Don’t Say “Please” and “Thank You”
Simple manners like saying “please” and “thank you” may seem small, but they carry a lot of weight in social interactions. Rude people often skip these niceties, barking orders or accepting favors without expressing gratitude. This lack of basic courtesy can make others feel unappreciated, fostering resentment and frustration. Saying “please” shows respect when asking for something, while “thank you” acknowledges the effort someone has made on your behalf. These phrases aren’t just polite but essential for creating positive, respectful relationships.
When someone neglects them, it communicates entitlement and disregard for others’ contributions. On the other hand, incorporating these small gestures into your interactions can brighten someone’s day and make them feel valued. Good manners cost nothing but can leave a lasting impression of kindness and respect.
10. They Interrupt and Talk Over Others
Conversations are meant to be two-way streets, but rude people often treat them like personal soapboxes. They interrupt, talk over others, and dominate discussions, making it nearly impossible for anyone else to get a word in. This behavior is frustrating and deeply disrespectful, as it suggests that their thoughts and opinions are more important than anyone else’s. Good communication requires listening as much as speaking, and interruptions disrupt the flow of dialogue and erode mutual respect. Allowing others to finish their thoughts shows that you value their perspective and are willing to engage in meaningful conversation.
By contrast, constantly interjecting makes interactions feel competitive rather than collaborative. Rude interruptions don’t just silence others—they create tension and diminish the quality of the conversation. Patience and active listening can transform interactions into opportunities for genuine connection and understanding.
11. They Ignore Personal Space Boundaries
We all have different comfort levels regarding physical proximity, but rude people seem to have missed the memo on personal space. They stand too close, touch without permission, and generally invade others’ bubbles without a second thought. This boundary-crossing behavior can make people feel uncomfortable, violated, and even threatened. It’s important to remember that everyone has the right to their own space and to have their physical boundaries respected.
So before you go in for that unsolicited hug or shoulder squeeze, take a moment to read the other person’s body language and ask yourself if they seem open to that level of contact. And if in doubt, err on the side of giving people their space. Everyone has different boundaries, and they need to be respected.
12. They Don’t Hold Doors or Offer to Help
Small acts of kindness, like holding a door open or helping someone carry a heavy load, can make a big difference in someone’s day. Rude people, however, often breeze past these opportunities, too absorbed in their world to notice others’ needs. This kind of selfish behavior makes life harder for those around them and contributes to a disconnection culture. Offering help or holding a door isn’t just about politeness—it’s about recognizing the humanity in others and fostering a sense of community.
These simple gestures can brighten someone’s day and create a ripple effect of goodwill. When people ignore these opportunities to be kind, they miss out on making meaningful connections. Taking a moment to help isn’t just considerate—it reflects your character and values.
13. They Don’t Excuse Themselves or Apologize When Necessary
Nobody’s perfect, and we all make mistakes or have moments of rudeness occasionally. The difference is that polite people own up to their missteps and apologize when necessary, while rude people barrel ahead without acknowledging wrongdoing. Whether it’s bumping into someone without saying “excuse me,” showing up late without apologizing or blurting out something insensitive, rude people often fail to take responsibility for their actions and their impact on others.
But here’s the thing—a sincere apology can go a long way toward repairing hurt feelings and restoring goodwill. So next time you find yourself in the wrong, don’t be too proud to say “I’m sorry” and make amends. Admitting you messed up is a sign of strength, not weakness.
