We use pronouns to refer to a person without using their name. The most common pronouns, he/she, specifically refer to a person's gender. For queer, gender non-conforming, non-binary or transgender people these labels may not fit, causing stress and anxiety. Proper pronoun etiquette demonstrates your acceptance of persons displaying these characteristics. Janika LeMaitre is a certified etiquette and protocol specialist with the Protocol School of Washington and the British School of Etiquette. Learn what the common gender pronouns are, why it is important to respect people's gender pronouns, what to do if you make a mistake, and how to ask someone what gender pronoun they use, and much more. No discounts apply.