How to Behave in a Bank

As with any public situation, the proper way to behave in a bank rests on consideration--for yourself, as well as others. Banks are not the placefor joking, laughing, loud talk, cell phone conversations, unruly children or a general disregard for the privacy of others. Here are some suggestions for proper etiquette in a bank.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Be ready when it's your turn. If many people are queued up, it's tempting to join them before you're ready with whatever calculating or paperwork you need to do. Fill out your deposit, withdrawal or savings slips before getting in line, or else make sure you can do it before your turn comes up. It's inconsiderate to keep others behind you waiting.
2. Keep your eyes to yourself. In banks, people are often holding cash, checks, bank statements and other documents with very personal information. Respect their privacy and don't look at those things, even when they're before your eyes. Proper bank etiquette is to look away.
3. Guard your privacy. Be careful about displaying your personal information while in a bank. Identity theft is rampant and there are many ways criminals accomplish it. Don't make it easier for them. For example, protect your ID and bank account information from the eyes of others, and don't discuss personal matters in other than a subdued voice. If you need more privacy, ask a bank officer to step into a conference room with you.
4. Keep kids quiet. If children accompany you on a banking errand, teach them to behave as they would in any public place. That is, with consideration toward others and with regard to the serious business taking place there. Don't let kids run around and make noise while you wait in line.
5. Shut off the cell phone. This point goes to general cell phone etiquette, which says the people around you don't want to hear your conversation. Unless it's an emergency, a cell phone call can usually wait. If you must talk, try to keep your voice low and the call short.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't joke about robbing the bank or any other criminal activity. As in airports, these kinds of subjects stopped being joking matters a long time ago and can get you a quick trip to the police station. Never refer to terrorism in any way. In fact, just don't talk much in a bank. Unless you want to draw the attention of bank security guards and tellers, and spend a lot more time than you intended on a banking errand, keep your conversation polite, subdued and focused on your business.