Article:
Don't Be That Guy: A Basic Guide to Convention Etiquette

Not everyone is a seasoned fandom convention veteran. Every weekend thousands of convention virgins stream into hotels and convention centers for the very first time, not quite sure what to expect. And although there is a great sense of camaraderie and friendship that exists at fandom cons, a con newbie may quickly learn that there are some basic rules of convention etiquette, and if you go against them ... well ... Cthulhu have mercy on your soul.

But never fear! The Convention Fans Blog and Alltern8 have put together a very basic guide to fandom convention etiquette, in the hopes you'll never ever become "that guy." This will be a very basic guide. Far more detailed ones have been written over the years, but I'm not interested in presenting newbies with a manual. Not today anyway.

1. Be Mindful of What's Around You (especially when you're in costume)

This little rule encompasses sooo many things. It all boils down to realizing that you are sharing space (and usually limited space at that) with a lot of people. Everyone is trying to get somewhere, or see something. Don't make it difficult by stopping in the middle of a walk way. Don't accost someone in costume and try to take their photo while in the middle of the vendor hall (ask for them to pose for you somewhere that isn't in a hallway, or in front of an elevator, or at the base of a stairway). Wearing a costume? Know how much extra space you'll need to move around, and be sure to watch out for other people so that you don't smack them with your various new extremities (I'm looking at you, wing and tail wearers). Just PAY ATTENTION. It's that simple.

2. Do Not Violate the Personal Space of Others

This is sort of in tandem with number 1, but I think it's worth mentioning specific issues concerning personal space. Hugging random strangers at a convention enthusiastically (known as "glomping") is NOT okay. In fact, don't touch anyone without permission, period. Not only can you make someone extremely uncomfortable, but you can actually damage their costume if they are wearing one. (Pro-tip: Cosplayers, bring a "handler" with you to ward off glompers, and help you navigate tight areas.) Just exercise some basic common sense here and keep your hands to yourself unless invited to do otherwise. But put away that free hugs sign. It's creepy.