A stranger in a store isn’t social distancing. Here’s what you should do.
Q: Howdoyoutell a stranger in a store whois not respecting the social distancing guidelines to back up?
A: When social distancing boundaries are violated, you should always start from a place of kindness and only escalate if necessary.
Start by evaluating the situation, if it’s the first time disrespecting social distancing guidelines around you, then you can say in a friendly and upbeat tone, “Would you mind creating a little bit more space between us, please? Thank you. I really appreciate it.” Since we can’t control what others do, we can give each other more space by saying, “Sorry, I’m trying to keep 6 feet away,” while stepping back.
If the person continues to disrespect social distancing guidelines, then you can seek the help of someone who is in charge. That will ensure you aren’t dealing with the problem alone. With that being said, you should never do this as a way to shame or punish someone else.
— Bonnie Tsai, etiquette expert and founder of Beyond Etiquette
A: Fortunately, being a woman has provided plenty of lessons over the years on the invasion of personal space. Move away. Scream whispering “social distance, social distance, social distance” as you walk away won’t hurt.
Make direct eye contact with the offender, then the stickers on the ground marking 6 feet, then back again with the offender. Some people just need the reminder that they’re being COVID-19 lurkers.
Ask the person (without removing your mask) to please step back a little. If the person doesn’t listen, ask someone who works there to help you.
At this point in the pandemic, people know what they are supposed to do to ensure the health and safety of themselves and their community. .
—