Money Manners

Going to the bank to make a deposit, open an IRA account, or place items in a safety deposit box isn’t an everyday event, and it requires a different behavior from going to the grocery store, so we’ll provide a quick refresher on bank etiquette.

Be Patient

Keep in mind that while you are waiting, your money is earning interest, so be patient if the line is long or the person in front of you seems to be taking forever. It seems to be the case that whenever we are in a hurry, the line moves slower than a glacier, making this a good time to check emails or return a text while you wait. However, resist the urge to take or make a call while waiting your turn.

Sweet as Honey

The adage “honey attracts more flies than vinegar” is especially true when dealing with bank personnel, who may be frazzled from a long day of being incredibly patient and professional to demanding, possibly rude customers. Be the customer they are glad to see in line, and you may find them hurrying to finish what they’re doing so they get to be the one who assists you. A warm smile and a genuine “thank you” just might make their day.

Dress to Impress

While there are usually no dress code requirements at banks beyond “no shoes, no shirt, no service,” it’s a serious place of business, meaning patrons should make an effort to look presentable. You certainly don’t need to dress like a banker to make a transaction, but ripped T-shirts, skimpy clubwear, and flimsy cover-ups for bathing suits aren’t appropriate. Bank personnel understand your visit may follow a trip to the garden center, but make sure you’re not tracking mud inside.

Safety Deposit Room Manners

If you need to access a safety deposit box, complete your business as quickly as possible, but without rushing. The safety deposit section isn’t the place to make a phone call or send texts that aren’t related to the contents of your box, so don’t treat it like a private office. The bank employee will know to leave the room while you open your box, so there is no need to ask them to step out.

Be Prepared

If you’re at the bank to make a deposit, fill out the forms before you get in line. This also applies to drive-through banking; consider how you would feel if the person in line in front of you waited until getting to the teller window to begin completing any forms. Pay attention as you complete the forms before you get in line to make sure you don’t make any mathematical mistakes that will slow the process.