Etiquette Questions, Answered: Tricky Conversations
How Do I Politely Tell Strangers That They Are Invading My Personal Space?
Q: Often when I’m at the ATM, people waiting in line crowd in close behind me. How do I politely tell them that they are invading
my space and need to step away?
Jill Broecher
Spearfish, South Dakota
I can see why you’re skittish. You’re keying in your PIN and perusing personal financial information while someone is hovering
in your personal space.
My suggestion: Tense up and jump a little, as if someone snuck up on you, and shoot a startled look over your shoulder. Make
eye contact, smile apologetically, and say, “Oh, hi. I didn’t realize someone was standing so close to me.” Chances are the
person will back off—literally.
—Michelle Slatalla
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