Etiquette School of Ohio

One way to keep a conversation flowing is to ask open -ended questions.  These are questions that require more than a yes, no, or one word answer.  After asking the question, be prepared to listen and show interest by nodding your head, making eye contact, and/or voicing an occasional word of expression such as “really”, “interesting”, or “I agree”.

Examples of open-ended questions:

How do you know the bride/groom?

Why are the ________ and the ____ your favorite teams?

What do you think makes “American Idol” a top rated show?

What do you enjoy most about rock climbing?

Tell me about your last vacation?

Many years ago, gossiping was a criminal offense.   Although you won’t be placed behind bars for spreading gossip today, the effects of gossip can be very damaging.  It may be tempting to learn the confidential and juicy details about a person or situation, but we must discipline ourselves to stop it.

If someone begins to share information you know you shouldn’t be hearing, even though you are chomping at the bit to hear it, politely say, “Does _______ know you’re telling me this?  We’re good, (co-workers, friends, neighbors, etc.), and I don’t want him/her to think I’m talking behind his/her back.”

In past entries, I have addressed how rude it is to tell someone they look terrible or tired.  Today, I will offer a response to such a comment.

If you are the unfortunate victim of a rude comment about your appearance, simply say, “Oh my, how sad to hear.  I was feeling rather good today until you made that comment.”