How do you behave with a sir?

Answer 1

Members of the peerage are addressed either as 'my lord' or their title. Their spouses are addressed as 'my lady' or their title.

If you mean a gentleman who is a Baronet (created or hereditary) address him as as you would a knight when introduced. He is one rank higher than a knight. Thereafter, in a social situation, you may call him Sir (first name), and if he really warms to you, he may invite you to call him just by his first name, but again, wait until he extends the courtesy, never presume. Wives of knights and baronets are addressed as Lady (first name).

If you mean a gentleman who has been Knighted, address him as Sir (first name) when introduced. Thereafter, in a social situation, you may call him Sir. If he really warms to you, he may invite you to call him just by his first name, but wait until he extends the courtesy, don't presume. Do not be overawed but always be deferential. Knights are powerful people in positions of great prestige. They are appointed because they are the leaders and, perhaps, world changers in their field; be it industry, education, medicine, sport, charity, the arts etc. A knighthood preferred on a citizen of a country or outside the commonwealth of the bestowing nation, is a very special honour indeed. However, deferential courtesy not withstanding, only those who are nationals of or have dual nationality with the bestowing nation can use the title 'Sir' and be addressed as such. Although they can all use the post nominal letters particular to the honour. Hence Sir Sidney Poitier, KBE and Mr William Henry Gates III, KBE.