How to Be Polite to In-Laws

Getting married comes with many blessings including a second set of parents. When dealing with your in-laws, being polite is the best bet. They may not like everything about you. But if you are polite, it should not be long before you can develop a friendship. Here are some steps to show your in-laws respect.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Greet your in-laws with an affectionate hello, a hug or a kiss. If you do not know them very well, then sticking with a hello is fine.
2. Show kindness. If you see your in-laws in need, offer to help them. This could be as simple as offering a glass of water or cooking an entire meal.
3. Make the first move. Don't always wait for your spouse to call their parents. You be the one to offer to drive them somewhere, pick up something for them or invite them over.
4. Be mindful of your body language and non-verbal actions. Frowning or rolling your eyes will send the message that you do not respect their opinions.
5. Listen to what your in-laws have to say. You may have heard the same story about your husband's first girlfriend many times before, but you are being polite just by listening.
6. Speak appropriately. Use respectful words such as yes ma'am and no sir, and avoid foul language or slang terms.
7. Treat your spouse with respect. The best way to win your in-laws affection is to be polite to their son or daughter. Pleasing your spouse will please his parents.

Tips & Warnings

• The basic ideas is to put the in-laws' needs before your own. This is the essence of being polite.
• Being polite does not mean that you should allow your in-laws to interfere with your marriage. Speak to your spouse about their parents' behavior in order to set up proper boundaries.