re: Do you use sir and ma'am with older coworkers?

This is an antiquated custom that is dead outside of the South. I haven't used ma'am or sir in years in Colorado, and I haven't heard it used since.

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I'm almost 28, so no

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yes, because as old as you are there is no reason to be respectful.

Older and younger.

I do but I find more and more that people get offended when I do this. So then I spend the rest of the conversation apologizing and making up some bullshite that it's out of habit teaching my young kids manners.

It just feels so weird to say yes or no without anything after it.

As many have said, I do until I'm asked not to. Then I'll drop it.

It's funny to see some people up here react whenever I say "no sir" or "no ma'am" up here in New England. Particularly with older women. They act like I just ran into a burning building to save a puppy because I'm so chivalrous. Then there's the inevitable "you're not from around here, are you?" that follows.

In a work environment, it's dumb to use these terms IMO. But you also have to take into consideration the culture of where you are and the work culture. Most white collar people will look at you funny if you address them as sir or ma'am. Some people are even insulted.

ETA: It also implies that you are accepting your Beta status.

Females yes, males no if we are coworkers. Any bosses or people higher up get ma'am/sir in company settings. Outside of that no.

What is everyone's rule for using Mr. Xyz or just a first name?

I use it on anyone and everyone. But not all the time.

yes ma'am, thank you ma'am

yes sir, thank you sir

just good manners...