By Linda Burkley, APR, Lecturer, Public Relations
Entering the workforce means knowing more than the requirements of a chosen field of study. Faced with job interviews, sometimes over meals, young professionals must arm themselves with knowledge about how and when to shake hands, how to eat soup, and yes, what to do with all of those forks.
Etiquette is an important way for employers (and potential employers) to distinguish between individuals who have leadership potential and those don’t concern themselves with making a positive first impression. Professionals who pay attention to etiquette rules and understand appropriate public behavior are far more likely to be noticed, and when entering the job market, being noticed is key to success.
Contrary to popular belief, etiquette is not a list of strict, outdated rules for country club members; rather, etiquette is a guideline for respectful and socially acceptable behavior. While etiquette encompasses table manners, thank you notes, proper introductions and the art of accepting invitations, it also includes being able to respectfully communicate with people of all ages and from all walks of life, feel at ease in social situations and ethically communicate with others in social situations.
Let’s look at a simple example. How many times have you been asked to RSVP to an event or program on campus? RSVP, an acronym for the French répondez s’il vous plaît, means “please respond.” If you are asked to RSVP, you are being asked to indicate to the sender of the invitation what your intent is – are you attending or are you unable to go? An invitation comes with an obligation, and your response is important for the host’s planning of food, place settings, drinks and other guest amenities. And perhaps even more importantly, if you do RSVP and find you have another obligation, become ill or overcommitted, let the host know immediately. Not doing so is poor etiquette and will score you no points with the host who, in some cases, may be considering hiring you.
The Center for Academic Achievement, along with PRSSA, is proud t sponsor several campus etiquette events to help students better understand etiquette, from formal dinners to professional attire. We know that not all students have opportunities to learn the rules of etiquette in class or at home, and we are happy to plan events that discuss the importance of practicing good manners and give you real opportunities to use them. All of the events we offer are free to students. The first of these events will be a Professional Etiquette Dinner on February 20 at 5 p.m. at Pine Lawn. Watch mySU for future events on campus or contact Linda Burkley (burkley@susqu.edu) or Ginny Motyka (motyka@susqu.edu) for information and more details.
Understanding appropriate behavior can help us navigate any situation – professional or social – with grace and confidence. When your manners measure up, you will focus more on conversation and engagement and less on the number of forks.
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