UPP.INT.12.1. MANNERS AND ETIQUETTE

I. GIVING CULTURAL ADVICE TO A COLLEAGUE 

1. APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR

Talking about appropriate behavior

Here are some ways to talk about appropriate and inappropriate behavior. Which are true for your workplace, country or culture? Criticism is tricky. Try not to be too direct. It's always important to show your respect to your elders. It's not appropriate to talk or joke too loudly. Try to avoid physical contact. Respect people's personal space. Hugging isn't appropriate, but a slap on the back or a  handshake is acceptable. 2. ADVERBS OF DEGREE Intensifying Some adverbs help intensify what you're saying. His behavior at the meeting was quite inappropriate. It's totally unacceptable to criticize your superiors. Your criticism of him was overly direct. Softening Some adverbs, on the other hand, help soften what you're saying. This is a rather quiet office. Try to keep the noise down. Hugging is fairly uncommon in this culture. Actually, I thought the joke was somewhat rude. In British English, quite is sometimes used to soften or qualify what someone is saying. In American English, quite usually means the same as very. Slapping someone on the back here is quite rude, but not very rude. 3. CULTURAL ADVICE Giving advice about appropriate behavior Use expressions like to these to give advice about appropriate behavior in your workplace, country or culture: It's not a good idea to tell a lot of jokes. It's inappropriate to slap someone on the back. Most people would consider that rather impolite. Hugging is not so common here. It's not acceptable to criticize people like that. You should be careful about showing respect.

II. ASKING SOMEONE FOR A FAVOR 

1. ASKING FOR A FAVOR

Use expressions like these to ask for a favor:

Could you do me a favor? I need someone to watch my dog.
I have a favor to ask. Could you lend me $50?
Would you be able to help me paint my new apartment?
I was wondering if you could give me a ride to work.

Responding to requests

Use expressions like these to agree to do a favor, or to turn someone down. It's generally considered polite to give a reason if you turn down the request. Absolutely! I'd be happy to help you. No problem! It would be my pleasure. I'm really sorry, but I can't. I'm busy that day. I'm afraid I won't be able to. I have to visit my parents. I wish that I could, but I have other plans. *Would you mind?* Be very careful with the expression Would you mind? If you say no, you are agreeing to do the favor. To refuse, use I'm sorry but, … A: Would you mind driving me to the airport? B: No, I wouldn't mind. I'd be happy to help. A: Would you mind cooking dinner tonight? B: I'm sorry, but I can't. I'm going out tonight. 2. EXPRESSING APPRECIATION Showing appreciation Use expressions like these to show appreciation: That is so nice of you. I owe you one. I really appreciate your help. That's very generous of you. You're very kind. I hope I can return the favor some time.

III. DISCUSSING OFFICE ETIQUETTE 

1. OFFICE ETIQUETTE

Discussing office etiquette

These words and phrases can be used to discuss office etiquette, or good manners in the workplace. The dress code in our office is business casual. The lack of cleanliness in the kitchen is unacceptable. The high noise level in work areas is very disruptive. Promptness for meetings is expected of everyone. It's common courtesy to turn off your phone in meetings. 2. EXPECTATIONS AND POLICIES

Expressing expectations and stating policies

Use expressions like these to talk about expectations and policies: I just want to remind you about the dress code. It's company policy that everyone turn off their phones in meetings. No one is allowed to wear shorts in the office. Everyone is expected to clean up after themselves. It's not fair to make others wait for you.

IV. EXPRESSING SYMPATHY 

1. CONDOLENCES

Sympathy vocabulary

It's not always easy to know what to say when someone is sick or has lost a loved one. It can be very difficult to find the words to express sympathy. My boss's mother passed yesterday. I must send my condolences. Try to avoid using platitudes when expressing sympathy.My uncle died many years ago, but I have fond memories of him.We couldn't attend the funeral, so we sent flowers.He died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. 2. OFFERING CONDOLENCES Expressing condolences Here are some expressions you may find useful if someone is sick. I'm so sorry that you aren't feeling well. Get better soon. Thinking of you. Get well soon! Here are some expressions you may find useful in the event of a serious illness or death. I was so sorry to hear of your loss.I'm glad I had the opportunity to know her. She'll be greatly missed.It's very difficult to know what to say.Our thoughts are with you.Anything you may need, just let me know. 3. SYMPATHY CARDS Writing a sympathy card A sympathy card should be short, sympathetic and sincere. Here are five simple steps to write one. Firstly, keep the greeting simple. Dear Bessie, In the opening line, refer to the person's illness or bereavement. I was so sad to hear of your illness. I want to express my sincere condolences for Fred's passing. Then say how you feel about the situation. Everyone at work misses you. He was a lovely man, and he will be greatly missed. Next, offer help or sympathy. If there's anything we can do, just let us know. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Finally, close the message with a suitable phrase then your name. Take care. Jane All our love,the Benson family In sympathy,James