What are the rules of etiquete when talking to a person?

by Pamela Brunz
(Boise, ID)

I have a friend who looks at other people while he is talking to someone. He doesn't look the person in the eye when he is talking,but looks across the room at who is there. I was told that someone should always look at the person you are talking to.

May 03, 2011
Etiquette and Talking to People
by: Kevin (Modern Manners and Etiquette)

This is a great question as there are several rules of etiquette when talking to people.

In direct response to your question, the answer is that it has more to do with the impression you make on people than it has to do with etiquette. Generally speaking, if you do not look people in the eyes when talking to them, they get the impression that either you are not confident, or that you are not interested in the conversation.

Since our website is all about how you can use manners and etiquette to make the right impression on others, it is important to make eye contact when speaking to someone. It gives them the impression that you are interested and engaged in the conversation. However, do not go too far as they might think that you are staring at them and making them uncomfortable.

There are also rules of etiquette about slightly turning your body as you are talking to them. If you are directly facing them, many people feel that the body language is confrontational. It is also important to give them space and make sure that they are comfortable with the personal space you have given them.

Thanks for the question!