11 rules that will make your host happy and comfortable.
1. As soon as you enter the house sit with your host and ask about the rituals of the house: breakfast, lunch and diner time; how the chores are done, etc. A good host/hostess will automatically offer a tour of the house, if not, kindly ask to know where the laundry can be done, where you will be sleeping, where extra towels and linen can be found etc.
2. Whatever the circumstances, if you are living at someone's place temporarily because of financial or family issues, you must from the beginning tell and show your host that you are working on your situation to get better and that you are not there to settle with them forever. If the issue is finding a job, they must see you proactively looking for one everyday. There is nothing more depressing than an outsider living under your roof that stays longer than expected for an undefined period of time, waking up late and watching TV all day.
3. Speak as soon as possible about your contributions to avoid any awkward situations and make sure everything is clear:
Will you pay a part of the rent? Bills? Food? Be transparent. Even when it is family or friends, life has a cost and everyone has responsibilities.
4. If your host insist that it’s not necessary to give a contribution then save your money. Do not show unnecessary spending like buying things that you do not need, go crazy shopping, or eat everyday outside. I am not saying that you should not please yourself but be wise on what you do. If someone gives you the opportunity to save money, spending it in futilities is like stealing from their food, rent or bills.
5. If no monetary contribution is asked , you must help in other ways. And I insist that you must, even if the host tells you "it's okay". Keeping your room tidy is obviously number one. Do the dishes and choose among the multiples different chores your host does weekly.
6. Always clean after yourself. If you have untidy something, take the time to tidy up. Borrowed something? Put it back. Unplugged something? Re-plug it. Bathtub is dirty? Rinse it. Make your stay as discreet as possible.
7. Respect the hours for eating, sleeping and waking up. If you have to wake up early, be discreet, try to always be on time to respect diner and participate in conversations at table.
8. If you feel tension in the house due to personal family reasons or a couple disagreement, go out for an hour or two. Find something to do outside and excuse yourself. If you are close to your host, situations may vary and you might be wanted as a support. Otherwise, do not interfere.
9. Be a gracious guest. Talk, exchange, laugh, be positive. No matter what situation brought you there, you must be a positive surrounding as much as you can. It will be even more pleasant for your host to have you.
10. Have table manners. Always mind your manners, especially at table.
11. Observe what are the traditions in the house and respect them. It is not for the house that hosts you to respect yours but it is for you to respect theirs.
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