Professional Etiquette by Mindy Yang

By Mindy Yang         

Professional etiquette is the unwritten key to any individual’s success in the workplace. While different professions require slightly different variations, the standard code of professional etiquette applies everywhere. Not only will this code help you become employed, but it will further assist you in reaching higher opportunities within your company.

·         When being introduced to a fellow colleague, one should always stand up. While giving them a firm handshake, you should always introduce yourself by your full name along with a smile.

·         It is crucial for one to be always respectful to everyone in in the workplace. By always treating others with respect, this causes them to treat you in the same manner. Not only does this create an enjoyable work environment, but it causes others to view you as a respectable and liked coworker. In real life scenarios, it is impossible to please everyone and arguments between you and a coworker may arise. But those moments are when it is more necessary to hold and carry out your professional etiquette.

·         When handling unpleasant conversations between colleagues or clients, make sure to always speak in a low and calm tone. By trying to speak at the same level as someone who is angry, it will only cause the situation to become worse. By speaking in a lower volume, it shows that you are trying to handle situation in a calm and rational way.

3 Interviewing Skills That Can Help Out by Brandon Figueroa

Brandon Figueroa

3 Interviewing Skills That Can Help Out

1. Preparation:

Winging an interview is never worth it. Not only will your interviewer see right through it, but your answers (and your self-confidence) will seriously suffer if you neglect to properly prepare. You should dedicate an hour, at the minimum, to your preparation.

2. Punctuality:

There are very few (if any) excuses that will redeem a late arrival. Do whatever you need to do to get there ten to 15 minutes in advance of your interview time, whether it’s planning your outfit and packing your bag the night before, setting five alarms or asking a friend to give you a wake-up call, or leaving extra early to account for potential transportation obstacles.

3. Thinking Before You Speak:

A well thought-out answer is always better than a rushed one. Of course, you don’t want to sit there in silence for 5 minutes as you come up with an answer, but it is acceptable to take several seconds to think before you speak.

Avoid the “ums” and “uhs” and buy yourself time by repeating the interviewer’s question back to them, or using a phrase like “That’s an interesting question!” or “I was actually just thinking about that when I read an article on a similar topic, and…”