Language & Vocabulary

Some example forms of etiquette might include:

• Looking into someone's eyes as you talk with them

• Not interrupting someone as they speak

• Avoiding negative expressions and feelings, such as swearing or an angry tone

• Not picking your nose as someone talks to you

• Showing up on time to a meeting or a date

• Being polite; for example, saying please and thank you as necessary

• And/or shaking one's hand when meeting them or saying goodbye

In the workplace, there are several modes of communication you can choose from, including:

• Email

• Telephone calls

• Instant messaging

• Text messaging

Before you contact anyone, try to determine which mode of communication is the most suitable for a particular situation. 

10 Interpersonal Communication Skills:

1. Flexibility – adaptability, willingness to change, lifelong learner, welcomes new experiences, adjusts, teachable

2. Communication – oral, presenting, writing, listening skills

3. Professionalism – businesslike, poised

4. Courtesy – manners, etiquette, business etiquette, gracious, says please and thank you, respectful

5. Responsibility – accountable, reliable, gets the job done, resourceful, self-disciplined, common sense

6. Integrity – honest, ethical, high morals, has personal values

7. Emotional skills – nice, personable, sense of humor, friendly, empathetic, positive

8. Attitude – optimistic, enthusiastic, encouraging, happy, confident

9. Teamwork – gets along with others, agreeable, supportive, helpful, collaborative

10. Work Ethic – hard working, loyal, initiative, self-motivated, on time

Resources:

• Interpersonal Communication: Social Etiquette & Norms

• The etiquette of making conversation

• 10 Tips for Communication Etiquette in the Workplace

• Interpersonal Communication: Meaning & 10 Must-Have Workplace Skills

Basic Phrases

• Buenos días = Good morning

• Buenas tardes = Good afternoon

• Buenas noches = Good evening

• Hola, me llamo [Juan] = Hello, my name is [John]

• Me llamo… = My name is…

• ¿Cómo te llamas? = What’s your name?

• Mucho gusto = Nice to meet you

• ¿Cómo estás? = How are you?

• Estoy bien, gracias = I’m well thank you

• Disculpa. ¿Dónde está el baño? = Excuse me. Where is the bathroom?

• ¿Qué hora es? = What time is it?

• ¿Cómo se dice ‘concert’ en español? = How do you say ‘concert’ in Spanish?

• Estoy perdido/a = I am lost

• Yo no comprendo = I do not understand

• Por favor, habla más despacio = Would you speak slower, please

• Te extraño = I miss you

• Te quiero = I love you