How-to-Say Guide: Gender Identity & Expression
Gender Identity & Expression
The words are the hard part. Here are three you can borrow.
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Client call
How to say it “Hi Chris. How would you like me to address you? Do you have a preferred name or pronouns? I’m happy to follow your lead.”
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Meetings and classrooms
How to say it “Let’s start with introductions. Please share your name, or a nickname or preferred name if you have one, and any particular way you’d like to be addressed. There’s no pressure to share more than you want to, and just saying your name is perfectly fine.”
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Customers and groups
How to say it “Hello, everyone, and welcome. Dear customers, thank you for coming in today. If you need anything, just ask any of our staff, and we’ll be happy to help.”
Say When “Dear client” / “Dear customer” Addressing customers or clients “Staff” Addressing the person serving you “Dear parents” / “Dear guardians” Families and carers “Student” Classrooms and schools The registered name or username Online or account messages Their job title: driver, teacher, manager, boss When you know their role No pronouns needed. Or simply say “Hi” or “Hello”, then start your question or conversation.