Etiquette

HANDSHAKES
When?
• Shake hands w hen you meet and when you leave.
• In a group, shake with the host first.
How?
• Stand.
• Grasp the other person’s palm firmly for 3-4 seconds.
• Smile.
Exceptions?
• If both hands are full, saucy hands, etc., don’t shake.
• If person has a prosthesis or arthritic hands, place your hand on their forearm or upper
arm while saying hello.


CELL PHONES
Leave the phone in the car (or turn it off) when going to the movies, a concert, a restaurant, or a
church service.
If you absolutely MUST answer a call, go somewhere you won’t disturb others.
Answer a business call with your first and last names.
When calling someone else, identify who you are and ask if it is a good time to talk.

CONVERSATION

DO
• Use new words and expand your vocabulary
• Compliment
• Maintain good eye contact
• Establish a common ground
• Ask questions
• Be clear in what you say
DON’T
• Use jargon or slang terms
• Gossip or preach
• Interrupt or burst another’s bubble
• Be loud or talk too fast
• Go into too much detail or go on and on
• Finish others’ sentences
• Complain or monopolize the discussion
• Use overly academic-sounding words
• Correct others or humiliate them
• Try too hard to be funny
• Argue

EMAIL ETIQUETTE

• Address should sound professional.
• Include all contact info at the bottom of your e-mail.
• Run spell check—no less formal than regular mail.
• Save resume/CV with your name—not just resume.doc
• Double check that you are not sending a virus.
• Format documents in Word or RTF.
• Check e-mail daily.


INTERVIEW ATTIRE
Men:
• Solid-colored suits are best: medium to dark blue and gray or subtle pinstripes.
• Dark dress shoes with dark socks.
• Facial hair should be well groomed.
Women:
• Basic colors are best.
• Pants may be worn to an interview—depends on organization and industry.
• Avoid low cut, too short, too tight.
• Be careful about the length of your hem.
• Always wear hose and closed shoes.
• Avoid anything in excess.