Business Etiquette This book teaches individuals how to represent their

Question:
When a woman announces herself for an
appointment, should she do so using her marital status? And
while we’re on the subject, what do I do when I’m intro-
duced to a female client who is of the same generation as
my mother? Should I use the person’s first name if the per-
son who introduced us is doing so, or should I refer to her
by her last name? If I should use the last name, what do I
put in front of it, “Mrs.” or “Ms.”?
Answer:
The answer to the first question is a resound-
ing no! It’s tacky for a woman to refer to herself as “Mrs.
Jane Smith,” just as it would be inappropriate for a man to
announce himself as “Mr. William Jones.” Titles should be
used by others, rather than by the person introducing or
announcing himself or herself.
When meeting a client who is significantly older than
you, address the person by his or her last name even if your
colleague is on a first-name basis with the person. (In the
situation you describe, you should use “Ms.” before the last
name unless you’re instructed to do otherwise.) If the per-
son wants you to address him or her using a first name, you
will be told. Remember, you can never get into trouble for
being too formal, but you can for being too informal.

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Common Questions
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Help new acquaintances to be sensitive about
the use of insider jargon in social situations;
ask for clarification for the benefit of any out-
siders who may be present.
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Brush up on (female) bathroom etiquette:
Avoid monopolizing public spaces.
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Brush up on (male) bathroom etiquette: Fol-
low the “one over” rule and respect the pri-
vacy of others.
Š
Be prepared to set limits gently but firmly
when a business contact makes inappropriate
romantic overtures.
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Be sure you’re sending the right message at