In today’s fast-paced and connected world, good manners aren’t just about knowing which fork to use at dinner or how to address a formal letter.
Etiquette has expanded far beyond the dining table and the boardroom.
Now, it includes everything from how you behave during a Zoom meeting to the tone you use in a WhatsApp message, and even what you post on social media for the world to see.
A Blend of Cultures in South African Etiquette
In South Africa, etiquette is a fascinating mix of influences.
On one side, there are Western norms often seen in business — formal greetings, professional dress codes, and structured communication.
On the other, there’s the deeply rooted respect for elders, traditions, and community customs.
This unique balance creates a distinctly South African version of modern manners in 2025.
But globalisation and the reach of social media are blurring those lines.
Teenagers picking up TikTok trends may speak or behave like their peers overseas, while a Johannesburg businessperson might bring Japanese-style meeting protocols into their work.
The result is a global cultural exchange that can enrich interactions — or, at times, lead to awkward misunderstandings.
From Old-School Rules to New-School Realities
Traditional etiquette valued formality — using titles instead of first names, speaking politely, and dressing with care.
But in many workplaces today, those rigid rules have softened.
Casual dress codes are common, men don’t always wear suits, and women have the freedom to dress as they choose. First-name greetings are the norm in many offices, creating a more relaxed atmosphere.
Still, some occasions call for formality. Weddings, funerals, and official events often require specific etiquette — like wearing black to a funeral or maintaining silence during certain ceremonies.
Yet, etiquette hasn’t escaped criticism. Some argue it can exclude people, particularly those unfamiliar with certain customs.
For example, someone who’s never attended a formal dinner may feel embarrassed when faced with multiple sets of cutlery.
That discomfort can create resentment, especially when social rules feel like a way of drawing lines between “insiders” and “outsiders.”
When used with empathy, however, etiquette is less about rigid rules and more about showing respect, kindness, and dignity toward others.
Why Online Etiquette Matters More Than Ever
In 2025, your online behaviour is just as telling as your in-person manners.
Sending unnecessarily long voice notes, ignoring questions in group chats, or eating during a virtual meeting can be just as damaging to your reputation as being rude face-to-face.
Generational differences also play a role. Older professionals may expect formal greetings and complete sentences in emails, while younger colleagues often add humour and a relaxed tone to their digital conversations.
Mistakes are often addressed playfully rather than with stern reprimands.
Researchers have found that “netiquette” — the rules for online conduct — is constantly evolving.
As new platforms emerge, so do new expectations for how to behave on them.
The Importance of Inclusive Manners in South Africa
With 12 official languages and countless cultural traditions, South Africa requires a flexible approach to etiquette.
Greeting someone in their home language or knowing when to switch between languages mid-conversation can help you build trust and form stronger connections.
Learning the most common greetings in your region — whether in isiXhosa, Afrikaans, English, or another language — is a small but meaningful step.
Observing how others behave before assuming you know the local customs can also prevent missteps.
The guiding principle of Ubuntu — respect, empathy, and a community-first mindset — remains a powerful foundation for everyday interactions, whether in personal relationships or professional settings.