Addressing Native American Tribal Leaders

• 1). Observe carefully how others address tribal leaders and try to follow their example. Open eyes, ears and minds are necessary to prevent cross-cultural misunderstandings as every tribe is unique.
  
  
• 2). Avoid prolonged eye contact while speaking or observing. In many Native American tribes, not making or maintaining direct eye contact is considered respectful behavior and extended eye contact is rude.
  
  
• 3). Ask polite questions about appropriate respectful behavior if you're unsure about how to proceed.
  
  
• 4). Keep your voice at a moderate level when speaking to Native American tribal leaders. Speaking too loudly may be interpreted as arrogance or talking down to someone.
  
  
• 5). Allow more time for a response than you might in other situations when speaking with a Native American tribal elder or leader, as in many of these cultures there is a longer pause between speakers that indicates the other person is considering what you said.
  
  
• 6). Don't rush tribal leaders with follow-up questions. This is seen as rude and disrespectful, and may result in you getting no answer whatsoever.
  
  
• 7). Give your undivided attention to tribal leaders while they are speaking.
  
  
• 8). Never look at your watch, clip your fingernails, yawn, walk out, raise your hand or shake your head while tribal leaders are talking.
  
  
• 9). Don't leave ceremonies or meetings early after making a brief appearance. In most Native American tribal cultures being impatient about time is culturally inappropriate, so plan on staying awhile.
  
  
• 10
  
  Never point in the presence of Native American tribal leaders, especially not Navajo tribal leaders. In Navajo culture, pointing is considered rude, and has cultural and religious significance that makes it offensive.