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an extended period. Proper etiquette is just as important in leaving a reception room as in
entering. Departing a reception should be timely and brief. If standing, merely go to the host
and hostess, present your thanks, and depart. Guests should not leave prior to the departure of
the guest of honor or senior member present.

14.8 Introductions

Introductions should be very simple and straightforward. First, when introducing men, present
the junior to the senior and mention first the name of the senior followed by the name of the
junior. For example, “Colonel Brady, may I present Lieutenant Colonel Walker?” Second,
when introducing people of equal rank or seniority, it does not matter whose name is given first.
For instance, “Major Grant, this is Major Grace.” However, in some instances although the two
officers may hold the same rank, one may hold a senior position thereby rating seniority.

A third rule is to present gentleman to ladies, except when the President, heads of foreign
government, royalty, or members of the clergy are involved. It is proper in such a case to present
the lady to the dignitary. However, when in doubt, always present the gentleman to the lady. A
gentleman will never object to being introduced to a lady. When making the introduction,
always mention the name of the lady first. For example, “Ms. Gomez may I present Sergeant
James?” A fourth rule is that a young lady is always presented to a senior lady first, then to the
other ladies present in descending order of seniority. If men are present, they are presented to
the young lady in descending order of seniority. Introductions in large groups are usually the
easiest. Merely state the name of the new arrival and then the names of the others in the order
they are standing or sitting.

When being introduced, look directly into the face of the person being met and offer an
appropriate greeting followed by his/her name. Adding the name of the person to the greeting
will aid in remembering the individual. Only if a lady offers her hand should a gentleman shake
hands with her, and then with a light to moderate grip. When gentlemen are introduced to one
another, the handshake is mandatory.

When outdoors, gentlemen should remove their glove before shaking hands provided it does not
delay the greeting. In the latter case, use of the phrase “Excuse my glove” would be appropriate.
Ladies are not expected to remove their gloves if they choose to shake hands.

Remember, never rush the introduction. Speak slowly and distinctly. Never take the lady to the
gentleman to be presented, but instead the gentleman to the lady. Do not present seniors to
juniors. Female members of the Armed Forces are introduced according to rank rather than
gender.

No one enjoys his/her name being forgotten or mispronounced. If you cannot remember a name
and it is your responsibility to make the introduction, simply apologize to the person and ask for
the name again. Remembering requires self-discipline and effort, and will serve to make a good
impression upon new acquaintances.

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