In my decades as a business etiquette expert, I’ve observed how professional courtesy evolves to reflect our deepening understanding of human dignity and respect. Few changes have been as meaningful as our collective recognition of the importance of personal pronouns in professional settings. What was once considered optional has rightfully become an essential element of professional courtesy in the AI Era.
As with all etiquette, pronoun respect isn’t about rigid rules but rather about creating environments where everyone can bring their full professional capabilities to the table without unnecessary barriers. The most successful organizations have recognized that inclusion isn’t merely a matter of policy—it’s a practical business advantage that fosters innovation, attracts talent, and enhances team cohesion.
The question I frequently receive from professionals across industries is straightforward: “How do I navigate pronoun etiquette gracefully?” Let me offer practical guidance for today’s business environment.
Introducing Yourself with Pronouns
The simplest approach is often the most effective. When introducing yourself, incorporate your pronouns naturally:
In verbal introductions: “Hello, I’m Jacqueline Whitmore, she/her, founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach.”
In email signatures: Include pronouns on the same line as your name or directly below it, using the same font style as your other contact information.
In virtual meetings: Most platforms now include pronoun fields in profile settings. I recommend utilizing this feature and including pronouns in your display name for larger meetings where not everyone may know you.
On business cards and social profiles: A subtle inclusion of pronouns has become standard professional practice.
Remember that the goal is normalization. When those in leadership positions consistently share their pronouns, it creates space for everyone to do so comfortably, without anyone feeling singled out.
7 Principles for Respectful Professional Interactions
1. Lead with Curiosity, Not Assumptions
Rather than making assumptions based on appearance or name, create habits that leave space for self-identification. When introducing others, if you’re uncertain about someone’s pronouns, simply use their name: “I’d like to introduce to you, Alex Keller, our new marketing director,” rather than “This is Alex. She’s our new marketing director.”
2. Practice Recovery With Grace
If you make a pronoun mistake—which happens to even the most mindful among us—correct yourself briefly and move forward. Avoid extensive apologies that center your discomfort rather than respecting the person’s identity.
3. Create Systems That Respect Choice
In your professional documentation, from meeting registrations to HR forms, ensure that pronoun sharing is invited but not required. Some professionals may be in different stages of identity disclosure in different contexts.
4. Normalize Pronoun Sharing in Group Settings
When facilitating introductions in meetings, model inclusive language: “I’d like to invite everyone to share your names, pronouns if you’re comfortable, and departments.” This approach makes space without demanding disclosure.
5. Update Your Professional Vocabulary
Review your communication for unnecessarily gendered language. Instead of “ladies and gentlemen” or “you guys,” consider “colleagues,” “everyone,” or “team.” These small adjustments create a more inclusive environment.
6. Respond to Misgendering With Diplomatic Correction
If you notice a colleague being misgendered, find an appropriate moment to offer correction. This might be in the moment with a gentle redirection, or privately after the fact. The key is addressing the issue while maintaining everyone’s dignity.
7. Approach Change With Patience and Persistence
Remember that building new habits takes time. Some colleagues may be learning these skills later in their careers. Approach education with patience while remaining firm about the importance of this professional courtesy.
The essence of all etiquette is creating environments where people can engage meaningfully without unnecessary discomfort or barriers. Pronoun etiquette is no different. When we extend this basic courtesy, we create professional spaces where everyone can focus on their contributions rather than on correcting misperceptions.
