Proper Etiquette?

Question

What is the proper etiquette for a situation like this.? I was leaving the bathroom in my office. As I was leaving, two women were trying to get in the same door. Should they have stepped aside to let me exit or should have I? This has happened many times before. Rather than get upset, as I do everytime, I'd ask just in case I was doing something wrong.

Answer 1

I don't think there is a set in stone rule, but generally the person exiting has the right of way. Of course if they have their hands full or whatever this is subject to change.

Answer 2

Generally, I go by the rule that whoever exits a place goes first (room, bus, etc). After all, they need to leave to make room for whoever comes in. So I would say they should have stepped aside to let you exit.

Answer 3

The polite way to handle this situation is to allow the person leaving the room, the bus, the elevator, the restaurant, the store, the bathroom, etc., to exit first.  The person entering should stand aside to allow the person leaving to exit, and then they can enter.

Answer 4

Generally, step aside and allow them to walk in and stick your foot out to trip them.

Answer 5

The rule is the same as on an elevator.  People should step aside for any person who is exiting a building, a bathroom, or an elevator.  Next time kindly say excuse me, you can't get in unless I am let out.  Crack a light laugh.  If they don't get it be a bit more upfront with them the next time.

Answer 6

You're supposed to let the person leaving out first and then you can enter.