How to handle common awkward moments
We all dread those awkward moments when you agonise over which answer is the right one, what to say to avoid offending someone, or how to best extricate yourself. Well, we’ve got the answers for you.
1. “I’ve been meaning to call you!”
Returning phone calls can be one of life’s simple tasks that falls by the wayside the fastest. But what happens when you run into the person whose calls you’ve not yet returned? What do you owe them? Take a few moments, while exchanging pleasantries, to assess your relationship with this person – do you want to give them a few minutes now for the Cliffs Notes catch up, or should you really schedule a coffee with them for when you’re both free?
Whatever you do, don’t apologise for not returning the phone calls – because that will just remind them of the situation and put the onus on them to say “that’s okay”, which it might not be. Make it positive and light with a remark like, “This is lucky – you’ve just saved us catching up over the phone because here you are.”
2. Awkward acquaintance run-ins
You know those times when you run into someone you know, but not well enough to ever seek out their company of your own volition? They’re always the ones you happen to run into on public transport, or simply walking down the street, making for some awkward conversational moments – especially if you’re travelling in the same direction. If you’ve exhausted your initial pleasantries and the thought of a floundering conversation about your friends in common exhausts you, then it’s time to politely bow out of the situation by excusing yourself to answer a call of nature at this convenient bathroom, or fulfilling your caffeine requirements by ducking into a café.
3. Appearance faux pas
There’s something slightly embarrassing about someone you don’t know that well who seemingly hasn’t noticed that they have forgotten to zip their fly, or have food stuck in their teeth. But it can distract you from the conversation as you wonder whether or not to tell them about it. Well, here’s my expert (self-proclaimed) advice: if you’re in a big group, it’s best not to embarrass the person by pointing out the flaw. You’ll score no points with anyone for doing so. If a moment comes up when you can help them correct the situation without drawing attention, that’s great. But if it’s something that can’t be helped (e.g. an already set stain, or inappropriate clothing choice), then it’s best to leave it alone.
4. “How do I look?”
Most of the time, this question is an easy one to answer, because it will usually come from a loved one who we love enough to gloss over any imperfections or fashion faux pas. But sometimes, it’s okay to be honest – so long as you to so tactfully. If you’re shopping, then the dressing room is the perfect place to help steer friends and family away from a fashion disaster. If something is too tight, or the colour is terrible, then you can blame the garment or brand with comments like, “this company runs so small – I never fit into any of their stuff”. Phrases like, “it doesn’t do anything for you” are a great way to remind the person that clothes should be accentuating their natural beauty and physique. If, however, this person is already dressed and out in public, or is in a time crunch and halfway out the door, then assure them they look nice, and perhaps schedule a shopping trip in the near future.
What’s your most dreaded awkward moment and how do you handle it?