I don’t much like the excessive use of first names here in the US (even though I’m American). For example, I don’t like it when a bank teller says, “Wolfgang, would you like to sign up for our new Deuterium Rewards credit card?” I would prefer to be addressed as “Mr. Surname” in that situation. I also dislike the phony informality of the American workplace. A boss is not a buddy, and I would prefer to maintain a respectful distance. I kind of like the old use of the last name alone among associates who are not close. On the other hand, use of the first name makes it harder for casual acquaintances and salespeople to look up information about you, so I guess it could protect privacy.

What are your thoughts about this? How would you expect people over 18 address to each other in the following cases? How would you prefer to be addressed in these cases if they apply to you?

—College professor/undergraduate student
—Teaching assistant/undergraduate student
—College professor/graduate student
—Supervisor/unskilled worker
—Department head/skilled or “professional” worker
—Salesperson/customer
—co-workers

Please mention if you live outside the US. International comparisons would be interesting.