In some cultures, such as Russia, smiling is not necessary.
For example, “Hello, Mr. Sanderson. It’s great to meet you! My name is Emma Payne and I work in cybersecurity. ”
There are many different ways people around the world greet each other, and these greetings may not always involve handshaking. Be aware of what’s appropriate in the country you’re living in. You can go online to find out if you’re unsure.
Eye contact is usually seen as a sign of respect in Western culture. In some Eastern cultures, it can be seen as a sign of aggression. Don’t make eye contact if the other person considers it rude. People with certain conditions such as autism and social anxiety may find eye contact unnerving or distracting. If eye contact is hard for you, you can fake it by looking at someone’s nose or chin. (They usually can’t tell the difference. ) If your conversation partner avoids eye contact, keep in mind that they may be shy or have a disability, and let it go.
You might say “Honey, can you pick my dry cleaning up today, please?” Or you can say “Thank you for getting that memo to me about the job assignment so quickly. ”
Say something like “Hi Ms. Richardson! How’s your day going so far?” When she responds, you can say something like “Oh you just had your lunch break? What did you have?” Try to remember details about the person you’re speaking with, such as their partner or children’s names, their birthday, or their anniversary. Be mindful of other issues and difficult life events. Listen attentively and pay attention to what they are saying to you. Do not interrupt them when they are speaking, but show them you’re interested by asking questions. Avoid jargon and any vocabulary that others may not know. If you’re discussing a complex topic, be careful not to speak arrogantly. [5] X Expert Source Tami ClaytorEtiquette Coach Expert Interview. 29 September 2020.
If they ask you to call them by their first name, you should do so. Use these terms for anyone 15 years or more older than you.
Acknowledge sad times, as well. If you know someone in their family has recently died, express your condolences.
Sex, violence, death, medical details, and politics usually make people uncomfortable. Avoid these topics in polite conversation, especially if you don’t know your conversation partner very well. Don’t point out things about a person that they might perceive as a flaw. For example, if someone is overweight, don’t mention it. Avoid commenting on people’s body size, body parts, habits, disabilities, or other potentially sensitive topics. Avoid intrusive questions towards someone who is different from you. For example, it’s not appropriate to ask a wheelchair user “What happened to your legs?” or to ask a person of color “No, where are you REALLY from?”
If you think someone might be feeling pressured, say “There’s no pressure” or “Please feel free not to take my advice if it doesn’t suit you. " If you think you might have crossed a boundary, you can say “I’m sorry. Have I made you uncomfortable?” or “Would you like me to stop?”
For instance, perhaps you flaked on your friend this weekend on a party you two had planned to go to for weeks. Say “I’m so sorry about this Friday. I got really tired after work and just wanted to sleep. That doesn’t make it okay though, so I apologize. Let’s go out this weekend. ”
For instance, if an event is business casual, then you should wear a nice shirt and slacks or a skirt. You can wear a blazer or cardigan as well. Make sure your clothes are ironed and clean.
Don’t begin eating until everyone else is served. Chew with your mouth closed and don’t talk if your mouth is full. Avoid foods with foul odors that will linger on your breath. Don’t slurp your food. Don’t put your elbows on the table and don’t reach over people for another helping. Ask if they can pass it to you. Don’t play excessively with your hair. Avoid habits that other people might see as disgusting. Don’t chew your fingernails or fingers. Avoid picking at your ears or nose. Instead, excuse yourself if you need to blow your nose or use the restroom to clean up.
