How to Address Government Officials

Addressing our governmental dignitaries does not come naturally in the casual society we live in. A few simple guidelines can help you avoid any embarrassing missteps. Just remember the basics and you will be the hit of any social occasion.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Address the President of the United States as Mr. President. His wife is addressed by name, such as Mrs. Jones or Mrs. Smith. Former presidents and their spouses are addressed by their surname, as in Mr. Jones and Mrs. Jones.

2. Speak to the vice president and his wife in the same manner as you address the president: Mr. Vice President and Mrs. Brown.

3. Speak to cabinet members of the government as Mr. or Madam Secretary. Spouses are addressed by their last name.

4. Refer to senators by title, such as Senator Smith. Use the title regardless of gender.

5. Address the members of the House of Representatives by last name, such as Mr. Brown or Mrs. Smith.

6. Use the office title when talking to a governor or mayor, such as Governor Williams or Mayor Rodriguez. Use the title regardless of gender.

7. Refer to judges as justices, such as Justice Brown. Use the title regardless of gender.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are in doubt of how to address a dignitary, listen as he or she is greeted by others and follow their example.