When should you stand when meeting someone?

Standing when greeting someone, especially a person of higher status or when being introduced in a group, is a sign of respect and acknowledges the social hierarchy. In professional and social settings, it demonstrates good etiquette and shows that you value the other person's presence. This practice can help set a positive tone for the interaction, as it establishes an atmosphere of respect and courtesy.

In many cultures, remaining seated when engaging with someone of higher status or during introductions can be perceived as dismissive or disrespectful. Therefore, standing in these circumstances reinforces the importance of politeness and acknowledges the role of the individuals involved in the meeting.

Other options suggest a more casual approach that may not align with traditional etiquette standards. For example, only standing for friends or when asked to do so may come across as indifferent in more formal situations, while refusing to stand at all can indicate a lack of respect for social norms or the people involved in the interaction. Therefore, understanding the importance of standing when appropriate is crucial for navigating social and professional settings effectively.