ProfessionalEtiquette

Would you hire Doug or Arthur?

What is Etiquette?• Make others feel comfortable and

respected• Not a list of rules• 80% common sense, 20% respect

A Positive First Impression

• What’s your purpose?• Introductions• Unless given permission, address

people by title and last name (Mr. Smith)• “Small” talk

Dress for Success• Clothes should be clean and

fit well• What message do you want

to send?• Shoes say a lot• Questions/Examples

Before the Meal…• Eat in advance• Review menu before you arrive, if

possible• Don’t rearrange seating arrangements• Be polite to everyone• Turn off your phone!• What do I do with the napkin?

Ordering Your Meal• Ask your host for

recommendations and order in mid-price range

• Avoid messy, complicated meals

• Avoid alcohol (most of the time)

• The bill

You’re Being Judged…

• Focus on the conversation – not the food• Keep pace with others at the table• Elbows off the table• Don’t speak with food in your mouth• No grooming or blowing nose• Never call attention to the dining

mistakes of others

Nonverbals& The Handshake

• Match your verbal and nonverbal communication

• Handshake should not last longer than greeting

• Avoid “hand over hand”, touching, or patting

• Firm enough to display confidence without being a bone crusher

Cutting Your Food• American and Continental Style• Demonstration

Digging In!• Wait to eat until everyone has been

served• Bring food to your mouth, not head to

plate• Spoon soup away from you• Keep used silverware on plate, not table• When finished, fork prongs down resting

on plate• No “doggy bags”

Need Help?Career Services• Personal consultation

on etiquette, designing your elevator pitch, and professional dress

• Career counseling• Job search assistance• Mock interviews• Resume and cover letter

review• Salary and benefits

negotiation

Connections Program• Weekly social lunches• Communication skills• Social events (weekend

and evening)• Transitional and

organizational support• On- and off-campus

referrals• Supported employment

Questions?