The Art of Manliness: Classic Skills and Manners for the Modern Man

by Brett McKay

Developing the traits of a gentleman is a key to success in all aspects of your life. Business associates will respect you; friends will flock to you; women will adore you.

Appearance matters. Dressing like a gentleman will boost your own confidence and win you the respect of others.

Visiting the barbershop with your father or son is a great tradition to begin in your family.

Don’t engage in gossip. If others do, always defend the person being spoken of.

Do make the person feel as though they are the most important person in the room. Lock into the conversation with great interest. Keep steady, but non-creepy eye contact, nod your head, listen intently and add hmmmms and ahhhhs when appropriate.

Tipping ensures great service. This is especially true of people who perform service for you regularly. If you tip a barista at a coffee shop you frequent or a waiter at your favorite restaurant, they will give you even better service next time.

Housekeeping at the hotel. A good tip for housekeeping is between $2 to $5 per night.

Barber. Tip 15 percent of the cost of the haircut.

Mail carrier. It’s against federal law to tip federal employees, but they can accept gifts of less than $20. Most will probably look the other way if you give more.

Don’t talk or answer your cell phone while talking to ANYONE in person.