Verbal Expressions

Wherever you are, whether at home, at work, or in public, always make sure that:

You think before you speak, and certainly before you act.

You listen before you speak. You will sound wiser if you listen first.

Don't interrupt when others speak. Let them finish before you respond.

Don't raise your voice – words of the wisdom should be heard in peace.

Speak politely and gently. Avoid rude, extreme or harsh words.

Avoid speaking in absolute terms ("never-say-never"). Remember, what goes around comes around, and things can and do change.

Adjust your linguistic level to that of your listener. If you are not understood, you may sound condescending, and rightly so.

Give the person you are talking to the feeling that you respect them, and avoid using cheap vulgar language, as it may come across disrespectful.

Beware of incitement, slander or defamation. Remember words cannot be retrieved once you have uttered them.

Avoid gossip. It is unfair and harmful, and the subject involved is not aware of it and cannot respond or refute it.