This isnt my elevator. But look at those Pikachus!
This isn't my elevator. But look at those Pikachus! Tomohiro Ohsumi / Stringer

There are two parts of my elevator that I'd like you to review.

First, this skyline wallpaper:

Pretty!
Pretty! Original photo by Tiffany Von Arnim

And now, this very informative sign:

๐Ÿ™€
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The full text here:


How to Practice Good Elevator Etiquette

The rules of riding in an elevator are unclear to many people. Are you supposed to hold the door? Should you speak to fellow passengers or not make eye contact? For some, riding in an elevator can be a stressful situation, due to claustrophobia, a fear of heights, and social anxiety. Whether you're at work, college, or living in a high-rise apartment, it never hurts to be courteous on an elevator.

1: Speak politely. One of biggest issues with elevator etiquette is whether or not someone should make small talk. Most people are hesitant to engage in conversation while in an elevator. We all live here, or know someone who lives here. We all should be comfortable having small talk. Try to break the ice politely - it never hurts to say "Good Morning" or "Hello" to people. And most folks do ask "should I talk to people in the elevator?" - My answer is, yes!

2: Stand to the right. While waiting for the elevator, stand away from the doors. Someone may be exiting at this floor, and you should always let them exit before you attempt to board. Stand to the right of the doors so that the left and middle is open for those getting off the elevator.

3: Hold the door if it's not an inconvenience. There is a lot of debate about this particular point: do you hold the door or not hold the door?

- Don't hold the door if you are in an elevator full of people. You will be delaying everyone in the elevator and cramming one more person into a tight space
- If you are alone in the elevator, it's good elevator etiquette to hold the elevator for a person approaching the elevator
- Never hold the door more than 20 - 40 seconds, this can cause elevator malfunction and delay other riders who may be waiting

4: Be the button pusher. If you are standing near the buttons, be willing to push a button for someone who asks. You can also ask someone who has just entered what floor they are going to.

5: Consider taking the stairs. When only going one, two, or three floors, take the stairs instead of the elevator. Unless you are injured, unable to climb stairs, or carrying heavy objects, you shouldn't take the elevator for one floor. Taking the elevator for two or three floors, especially during busy elevator traffic, is also considered poor etiquette. Reserve the elevator for people who have long walk ups or who are unable to climb the stairs.

6: Move to the back. When you step into an elevator, file in so others can board behind you or board on another floor. Stay farthest from the door if you will be the last person to step out. If you are traveling to the ground or top most floor, it's better to stand farthest from the elevator doors after you board the elevator. This way you will avoid inconveniencing others.

- If you happen to be riding in the front, make sure to step off the elevator when the doors open on each floor. When in this position, hold the elevator with your hand as the people from the back of the elevator make their way out.

7: Think about odors. Good hygiene should be practiced every day, but especially if you are taking elevators on a regular basis. The small, confined spaces can draw attention to any body odor. Try not to pass gas or belch while riding in the elevator. If you do, excuse yourself. Don't bring extremely smelly food onto the elvator. Instead, bring your food in containers. Never eat in an elevator. Never apply perfume or lotion. What smells normal to you may make someone else very sick.

Now that you've reviewed both, a quick poll: