Everyday Etiquette
How to Guide
RSVP Like a Pro: Confirm (or decline) an invite without ghosting
Your decision to attend affects more than just you 鈥 there are costs tied to your attendance or absence. Mastering RSVP etiquette and time management shows respect for others and makes you stand out in both personal and professional settings.Need-to-Know:
- Always respond to invitations: It鈥檚 not optional! Letting the host know whether you鈥檒l attend is a must.
- Do it on time Stick to the RSVP deadline, no excuses 鈥 and in the manner requested.
- Be clear and commit to your answer 鈥 Whether you're attending, declining, or unsure, be direct. Avoid vague responses like 鈥渕aybe鈥 unless the host has offered that option. If you say 鈥測es,鈥 make sure to show up. If you say 鈥渘o,鈥 don鈥檛 change your mind last minute.
- Saying 鈥淣o鈥 is OK 鈥 Don鈥檛 avoid responding (or wait until the last minute) because you plan to decline. The host will not be mad; they will appreciate knowing so they can plan accurately for the event.
- Update the Host if Plans Change 鈥 if you said you weren鈥檛 coming but can now make it (or vice versa), let the host know right away.
Nice-to-Know:
- Let the Host Know About Dietary Needs 鈥 have a food allergy or dietary restriction? Make sure to mention it when you RSVP so your host can plan accordingly.
- Follow the Host鈥檚 Requests 鈥 pay attention to any instructions about dress code, plus-ones, or anything specific to the event. This shows respect for the host's effort.
Dig Deeper:
Time Management Tips
- Be On Time 鈥 Plan ahead by knowing where the event is and how long it will take to get there. Arriving on time鈥攊f you arrive early or even 3-5 minutes early鈥攕hows respect for others鈥 schedules.
- Prepare for the Unexpected 鈥 Always factor in potential delays, like traffic or parking issues, to avoid being late.
- Communicate Delays 鈥 If you鈥檙e running late and can鈥檛 avoid it, message the host or organizer with an apology and an estimated arrival time.
- Stay for the Full Event 鈥 Unless you鈥檝e arranged to leave early, plan to stay for the entire event. Leaving early can seem disrespectful unless it鈥檚 an emergency.
- Leave On Time 鈥 Don鈥檛 stay longer than the posted event endtime unless specifically invited. You don鈥檛 want to overstay your welcome.
- Say Goodbye Graciously 鈥 Before heading out, make sure to thank the host or event organizer for having you. A simple 鈥淭hanks so much for inviting me鈥攖his was great!鈥 goes a long way.
Practical Tips for Students
- Use Your Calendar 鈥 Keep track of RSVP deadlines and event times on your phone or with a physical calendar to avoid missing anything important.
- Set Reminders 鈥 Set notifications for both RSVP deadlines and event start times, so you don鈥檛 forget to respond or arrive on time.
- Practice Makes Perfect 鈥 Role-playing RSVP and time management scenarios can help you get comfortable with these skills. It may seem simple, but practicing polite responses and punctuality can boost your confidence.
Pro Tips:
Table Manners 101: Dining together, more than just the food
Regardless of who you鈥檙e with, friends, meeting new colleagues, or dining with family, it鈥檚 not just about which fork to use鈥攊t鈥檚 about connecting with others, building relationships, and creating a sense of community while you share a meal. Remember: the point of the meal isn鈥檛 to scarf down your food鈥攊t's to enjoy each other and keep the conversation flowing! Time to bring your A-game to the table!
Need-to-Know:
- It鈥檚 not about the food 鈥 Your behavior at the table says a lot about you!
- Smartphone etiquette 鈥 Keep your phone away from the table and on silent or vibrate. Save the texting and calls for after the meal.
- Engage with your table 鈥 Talk to everyone, especially the people sitting next to you. It鈥檚 not just about eating but making connections! Try coming up with a few easy questions ahead of time to feel prepared for the conversation.
- Pick the least advantageous seat 鈥 When you鈥檙e at a meal or meeting, sit in the least 鈥減rime鈥 spot. That would be the one with your back to the stage, or facing away from the nice view. Save the best seat for your guests or anyone with a higher rank in your group or organization. It shows respect and good leadership!
- Napkin basics 鈥 Place it on your lap once seated, use it as needed during the meal, and leave it neatly on the table to the left of your place setting when you're finished and everyone is leaving the table. If you need to leave the table during the meal, place the napkin on your chair seat.
- Which one is mine?
(b) your salad/bread are on the left, and (d) drinks are on your right. - When to start eating? 鈥 Wait until everyone has been served or the host starts. If there is an agenda for the event that includes a prayer or invocation, eat only after that has taken place.
- Utensil know-how
Start with the utensils on the outside and work your way in with each course. Cut one piece of food at a time. Dessert utensils are usually at the top of your place setting, and you鈥檒l use them when dessert is served. - Passing food 鈥 Always pass to the right and keep things that are eaten together passed together, whether it鈥檚 salt and pepper, bread and butter, cream and sugar 鈥 they go together.
Nice-to-Know:
- Join the conversation 鈥 Be present and engage with the people around you. Good company is just as important as good food.
- Where to place your utensils: When resting, fork at 10:00 and knife at 2:00; or finished, both knife and fork at 2:00. [with graphic]
- How to eat bread like a pro
- Your bread plate is on your left鈥攔emember that!
- Use your butter knife to spread butter onto your bread plate (not directly on the bread).
- Break off a small piece of bread, butter it, and then eat.
- Pace yourself 鈥 Try to match the speed of your dining companions. Don鈥檛 rush or take forever鈥攋ust keep it balanced.
- Posture check 鈥 Sit up straight and avoid leaning on the table while eating.
- Pass, don鈥檛 reach 鈥 Instead of stretching across the table, politely ask someone to pass what you need.
Dig Deeper:
Pro Tips:
How to Dress for Success: Nailing the first impression
Whether you鈥檙e heading to a job interview, networking event, or just a casual get-together, your appearance speaks before you do.
First Impressions Are About More Than Words
According to research from UCLA professor , 93% of spoken communication has nothing to do with what you say! His research simplified,
says:
- 55% comes from your body language and appearance
- 38% is about your tone and vocal quality
- Just 7% is based on the actual words you say
Your Outfit Speaks Volumes
Your choice of attire is a huge part of how people perceive you right off the bat. So, make sure everything you鈥檙e putting out there says what you want it to!
Need-to-Know:
- Non-verbal communication: Stand tall, make eye contact, and carry yourself with confidence. Keep in mind that over half of first impressions come from your body language and appearance.
- Grooming: Make sure your clothes are neat and free of wrinkles. Avoid visible undergarment lines, and keep accessories and fragrances subtle.
- Skin is not in: This applies to everyone! Cleavage, butts, pecs, stomachs鈥one of that should be on display. Just because something is trendy doesn鈥檛 mean you should wear it for a work or professional event. You may have to update where you shop.
- Dress for the occasion: Always consider the setting when choosing what to wear. When in doubt, it's better to be slightly more formal than too casual.
Attire
|
Business |
Business Suit with Tie: Go for a suit that fits well in neutral colors like navy or charcoal, paired with a dress shirt and tie. |
|
Business Casual |
Business Casual: You can skip the tie but still wear a suit, or opt for a sport coat with slacks, a dress or skirt. Stick to simple, professional patterns and colors and avoid anything too trendy or flashy. |
|
Casual |
Button-Down Shirt & Slacks: A button-down shirt with slacks or a skirt is a solid choice. Avoid jeans unless specified, and make sure your clothes fit well. |
|
Smart Casual |
Polo or Golf Shirt with Khakis: A collared shirt, like a polo or golf shirt, paired with khakis or chinos is a great smart casual look. Make sure your clothes are well-fitted and wrinkle-free. Avoid athleisure 鈥 no yoga pants or sweatpants. |
|
Resort Casual |
Polo or Golf Shirt with Shorts or a Sundress: Pair a collared shirt with tailored, knee-length shorts or wear a knee-length sundress. If it鈥檚 spaghetti straps, wear a jacket or sweater. And no cutouts! |
Nice-to-Know:
Some helpful links containing solid advice:
Dig Deeper:
Pro Tips:
Introductions: How to introduce yourself and others without feeling awkward
Mastering the art of introducing yourself and others is a major part of social and professional etiquette. By becoming comfortable with these introduction techniques, you鈥檒l appear more professional, respectful, and engaged in conversations, leaving a lasting positive impression.
Need-to-Know:
Introducing Yourself
- Stand up to greet people: Always stand when you鈥檙e meeting someone鈥攊t shows respect and makes the interaction more engaging.
- Eye contact is a must: Maintain good eye contact. It shows confidence and that you're engaged in the conversation.
- Mind your body language: Keep your posture straight and avoid fidgeting. Also, respect personal space, and be mindful of how close you stand (18鈥-24鈥 is considered appropriate).
- Practice your handshake: A firm handshake shows confidence and sets you apart. Learn more here.
- Tailor your introduction to the setting: When introducing yourself, think about what鈥檚 most relevant to the situation and the person you鈥檙e speaking with. It鈥檚 not just about listing your name and job title鈥攊t鈥檚 about what will connect you to the audience or setting you're in. The key is to keep it brief and relevant. Keep the focus on what the person you're meeting would find interesting or helpful, rather than listing a lot of personal details.
- Reintroduce yourself the next time you see them: At subsequent meetings with someone you鈥檝e already met, introduce yourself again and remind them where you met before. Don鈥檛 be offended if they don鈥檛 remember the details of your previous meeting. Do this for at least three events or meetings, or until the other person says they remember you. It helps them get familiar with your name.
- Use their name to remember it: Repeat the person鈥檚 name when you introduce yourself鈥攊t helps solidify it in your memory. After the event, you can also take a few notes (voice record on your phone or add notes to their contact in your phone) to make sure you don鈥檛 forget any important details.
- Be proactive at events: Don鈥檛 wait for others to come to you. Take the initiative to mingle and introduce yourself to people. Networking is all about putting yourself out there!
- Shift the focus to them: After the initial introductions, ask questions about the other person, listen actively, and show interest in what they鈥檙e saying. Meeting someone new is not just about you; it's about making a connection.
Introducing Others
Introducing people in business settings is a bit different from social settings. Here鈥檚 how to do it right:
- Recognize the hierarchy: Getting the order of introductions right is key to showing respect in social and business
settings. In business, you always introduce the person with the lower rank TO the
person with the higher rank. This means you say the higher-ranking person鈥檚 name first.
Just remember the phrase 鈥淭O YOU鈥鈥攜ou start by addressing the more senior or important person first, and then introduce
the other person to them.
Example: 鈥淧resident Cost, I鈥檇 like to introduce TO YOU my parents, Ed and Monique Jackson. They traveled today from Chicago and this is their first time on campus.鈥 - Hierarchy depends on the situation: Who is higher-ranking can change depending on the people involved. In a professional
setting, it could be based on job titles, whether someone is an elected official,
etc. In more casual settings, it could be about age or experience. Pay attention to
the context.
Example: 鈥淪enator Smith, I鈥檇 like to introduce TO YOU President Cost, president of Jacksonville University, where I am a senior engineering major.鈥 - Courteous language鈥 Use polite phrases such as 鈥淧resident Cost, I鈥檇 like to introduce TO YOU鈥︹
- First and last names 鈥 Even in informal situations, it鈥檚 helpful to use both first and last names: 鈥淪hayla, I鈥檇 like to introduce to you Brett Morgan. Brett, this is Shayla Jones.鈥
- Start a conversation 鈥 Find a common topic to help the conversation flow: 鈥淧resident Cost, I鈥檇 like to introduce TO YOU my parents, Tim and Cynthia Matthews. This is their first time on campus, they鈥檙e visiting from Louisiana.鈥 Notice how this gives President Cost conversation starters, like where your parents are from and that it鈥檚 their first visit, to campus.
Nice-to-Know:
- If you鈥檝e forgotten a name: It鈥檚 perfectly fine to say, 鈥淚 know we鈥檝e met before, but please remind me of your name.鈥 This is much better than saying, 鈥淚鈥檝e forgotten your name,鈥 which can sound like they weren鈥檛 important enough to remember.
Dig Deeper:
- Examples of tailored introductions of yourself for different settings:
- At Networking Events: Focus on what you鈥檙e passionate about or what you're hoping
to learn.
鈥淗i, I鈥檓 [Your Name]. I鈥檓 studying [your major] and looking to connect with people in [industry or field]. [PAUSE IN CASE THEY鈥橠 LIKE TO SPEAK.] I鈥檓 really interested in [specific aspect of the field], and I鈥檇 love to hear more about your experience.鈥 - At Interviews or Professional Settings: Share relevant skills or recent accomplishments
that show you can add value.
鈥淚鈥檓 [Your Name], and I鈥檝e been focusing on [specific skill or project]. I鈥檝e had the chance to [describe relevant experience], and I鈥檓 excited to contribute to [company or team].鈥 - At Social or Casual Events: Introduce yourself briefly and highlight something that
helps others connect with you.
鈥淗ey, I鈥檓 [Your Name]. I鈥檓 from [location] and I鈥檓 really into [hobby or interest]. How about you?鈥
Pro Tips:
Handshakes 101: Keep 鈥榚m smooth and simple
Need-to-Know:
- Be prepared: Carry your stuff in your left hand so your right hand is free for a handshake.
- Don鈥檛 make it awkward: Pump once or twice, then let go鈥攏o need to hold on too long and no need to use both hands.
- Name tag placement: If you're wearing a name tag, make sure it鈥檚 on your right shoulder so it鈥檚 easy for the person you鈥檙e meeting to see.
Nice-to-Know:
- Be mindful when offering a handshake 鈥 Consider the situation. Some cultures have different customs around handshakes, and health protocols might require alternatives. Stay flexible and respectful to make the best impression.
- Alternatives to handshakes 鈥 if you are unable to shake hands due to a medical reason, health concern or personal preference, consider placing your right hand on your chest and inclining your head while saying 鈥淚t鈥檚 nice to meet you.鈥
Dig Deeper:
Pro Tips:
Mastering the Art of Conversation: Even small talk can be fun!
Strong conversational skills are key to building meaningful connections, both personally and professionally. Whether you're making new friends, chatting with a professor, or networking at a career fair, the way you engage in conversations can have a lasting impact. By mastering the art of conversation, you鈥檙e not just making small talk鈥攜ou鈥檙e building relationships that can open doors in both your personal and professional life. The best conversations are balanced, respectful, and full of genuine curiosity.
Need-to-Know:
- Conversations are like a game of catch: Imagine playing catch with a tennis ball. Someone throws the ball to you, but instead of tossing it back, you just hold onto it. Awkward, right? That鈥檚 how a bad conversation feels. A good conversation is like a back-and-forth game of catch鈥攕omeone throws out an idea or comment, and the other person tosses something back. Don鈥檛 drop the ball (don鈥檛 use one-word answers) and don鈥檛 hold the ball (don鈥檛 talk the whole time).
- Listening like a pro: Be present and show you鈥檙e listening. Give your full attention to the speaker鈥攏o distractions, just active listening. Nodding, eye contact, and responding with short phrases like "I see" or "That makes sense" show you're engaged.
- Clear communication: Speak clearly and don鈥檛 forget to smile! Use a moderate pace and enunciate your words so people can easily follow you. Smiling shows you鈥檙e interested 鈥 even on the phone, you can hear a smile!
- Ask open-ended questions and don鈥檛 be afraid to follow up: Try asking things like, 鈥淲hat are you most excited about right now?鈥 to get others talking. Show you care by digging a little deeper. If someone mentions a project, ask, 鈥淗ow鈥檚 that going?鈥 or 鈥淲hat鈥檚 been the most challenging part?鈥
- Know your audience: Whether it's a professor, peer, or professional, doing a little research about them (their interests, job, or hobbies) can help you spark more interesting conversations.
- Prepare for the usual questions: As a student, you probably get asked the same things all the time鈥攜our name, where you鈥檙e from, your year in school, your major, and what activities you鈥檙e involved in. People also want to know your goals, whether that鈥檚 a career, grad school, or something else. Make sure you have answers ready, so you keep the conversation going. And remember, saying "I don鈥檛 know." with no other information is like dropping the ball in a game of catch鈥攊t can bring the conversation to a halt. It鈥檚 ok to not be sure, but try adding some context 鈥 for example, 鈥淚 don鈥檛 know my plans for after graduation yet. I鈥檝e really been enjoying my marine science class though.鈥
- Avoid asking, "Do you have any advice for me?" Why is this question a miss? First, it shifts the focus to you and can make the conversation feel one-sided. Second, it makes things transactional rather than building a real connection. Instead, aim for a more engaging conversation where both sides share and learn from each other 鈥 try a question like 鈥淚鈥檓 curious how you handled [example] in your career?鈥
- Exiting the conversation gracefully: At an event, aim for about 3-5 minutes, adjusting to slightly longer if the conversation is flowing. It鈥檚 better to leave them wanting more than dragging it out. When there is a natural lull, say something like, 鈥淚鈥檓 sure there are a lot of people here who would like to speak with you. It was great talking with you! Hope we can chat again soon.鈥
- Stay humble: Avoid bragging or talking too much about yourself. Let the conversation be about both of you.
- Keep it respectful: Skip controversial topics or anything that might offend. Read the room based on the type of event. Respect everyone鈥檚 perspective.
Nice-to-Know:
Starting Career Conversations: Why it matters
Social events aren鈥檛 just about handshakes and appetizers. They鈥檙e real opportunities to learn from people who鈥檝e already navigated the path you're about to take.
Asking thoughtful questions about someone鈥檚 career isn鈥檛 just polite鈥攊t鈥檚 powerful. It shows curiosity, helps you gather real-world insight, and can spark a connection that opens doors later on. You鈥檙e not expected to have it all figured out鈥攂ut being genuinely interested in how others found their way can help you discover your own.
The key? Be curious, not rehearsed. Ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and don鈥檛 worry about having all the 鈥渞ight鈥 things to say. Most people love talking about their journeys鈥攁nd they鈥檒l respect you for wanting to learn.
Asking about someone鈥檚 family can be a warm and personal way to connect, as long as it鈥檚 approached with respect and openness. The key is to keep personal questions friendly, not prying, and always open-ended so the person can choose how much to share. Here are questions covering general subjects 鈥 personal, college, travel, hobbies, career . . . this is just a start, add to the list . . . and, say them in a way that feels natural for you!
Are you a Jacksonville native?
Do you have family nearby?
What was your college experience like?
Were there any clubs or activities you really loved when you were my age?
Do you remember your first job out of college? What was it like?
Did your college major end up connecting to what you do now?
What do you think has changed the most about college since you went?
Were there any big decisions early in your career that shaped where you are now?
How did you get started in your field?
What鈥檚 something you love about the work you do?
What do you enjoy doing when you're not working?
Do you have a favorite way to celebrate a holiday or birthday?
What鈥檚 a tradition you鈥檝e kept over the years?
What was the best concert or live event you鈥檝e ever been to?鈥
What do you enjoy doing when you have free time?
What鈥檚 something you do just for fun?
Is there a creative outlet or side project you really enjoy?
What鈥檚 one place still on your travel bucket list?
Is there a place you鈥檝e been that you鈥檇 love to go back to?鈥
Have you ever had a trip that totally changed your perspective?
What鈥檚 one of the most interesting places you鈥檝e traveled to?
Is there a book, podcast, or movie you鈥檝e recommended a lot recently?
Has anything surprised you lately鈥攊n work, life, or the news?
Who has had a big influence on your career or outlook on life?
Follow-Ups to Keep the Conversation Going
What was that experience like for you?
What made you decide to do that?
How did that turn out in the end?
Dig Deeper:
Slang is not the way to go 鈥 upgrade your language appropriately for various situations
When you're in a job interview, giving a presentation, or working in a professional environment, the way you talk is key (it鈥檚 38% of the impression you make!). Some phrases that work in casual conversations come across as too informal or unpolished when you're trying to make a great impression.
- Cut the filler words: Avoid starting sentences with "ummm" or "so..."鈥攖hese make you sound unsure. Instead, pause and collect your thoughts if needed.
- Skip the casual agreement: "I know, right?" might be great with friends, but in professional settings, it's too informal. Instead, say, "I agree" or "That鈥檚 a great point."
- Avoid saying "you guys": Try addressing a group by using inclusive language like 鈥渆veryone鈥 or just address the individuals directly.
- Tone down the superlatives: Constantly saying 鈥減erfect鈥 or 鈥渁mazing鈥 can sound exaggerated. Go for more specific feedback, like 鈥淭hat鈥檚 a great idea鈥 or 鈥淭his is really well done.鈥
- Ditch the casual affection: Phrases like 鈥渓oving on them鈥 or 鈥渁ppreciate you鈥 are better for casual contexts.
- Nix the buzzwords鈥攕tand out instead: It鈥檚 easy to fall back on trendy words like perfect, absolutely, or 100% in conversations, emails, and interviews. But when everyone鈥檚 using them, they lose their punch. Sound more thoughtful by choosing words that reflect your personality and show you鈥檝e really thought about what you鈥檙e saying.
- Drop unnecessary qualifiers: Words like 鈥渁ctually鈥 or 鈥渏ust鈥 can water down your message. Be direct and clear in your statements.
- Avoid misleading phrases: Phrases like 鈥淚鈥檓 not gonna lie鈥 or 鈥渨ait, I lied鈥 can give the impression that you're being dishonest or simply don鈥檛 have it together. Just state the facts without qualifiers.
- Don鈥檛 overuse "super:鈥 Instead of saying something is "super exciting" or "super important," find more specific adjectives like 鈥渧ery exciting鈥 or 鈥渃rucial.鈥
- End strong: Avoid weak closing statements like 鈥渟o, yeah鈥︹ or 鈥渁nd that鈥檚 pretty much it.鈥 Instead, wrap up with a confident conclusion, like "That covers the main points" or "I'm happy to answer any questions."
Pro Tips:
Thank You Notes: Make them count
When you're writing a thank-you note, don't just go through the motions鈥攎ake it personal and meaningful. By taking the time to add your own personal touch, you make the note stand out and show that you鈥檙e truly grateful. It鈥檚 all about making the connection feel real, not just a formality!
Need-to-Know:
- Structure your note: Start by thanking the person for their time, and let them know that you really appreciate it. Then, share a specific moment or insight that made an impact on you. For example, instead of just saying 鈥淚 enjoyed meeting you,鈥 talk about something they said that made you think or inspired you. Wrap it up by expressing that you鈥檙e looking forward to seeing them again or continuing the conversation.
- Long doesn鈥檛 equal good: A great thank you note can be 3-5 sentences, if they are thoughtful and specific. Especially if you鈥檙e writing to a leader, keep it brief.
- Be timely: Always send a follow-up thank you note right away鈥攜ou want the note to arrive before you see them again.
- Pick your medium: Handwritten notes are preferred when possible, but email is fine if you need to be quick.
- How you write matters: Grammar, spelling, and punctuation are critical! Don鈥檛 just rely on spell check. If it鈥檚 an important note, have someone proofread it.
- Don鈥檛 be a robot: Keep it personal and warm鈥攕hare a genuine feeling, not just a list of facts.
- Avoid generic phrases like 鈥渢hank you for everything you do,鈥 which can sound empty.
- Please, don't use AI! It's obvious, cold, and impersonal!
Nice-to-Know:
- Example:
Dear President Cost,
Thank you for speaking with our class on Wednesday. We really appreciate the time you take to engage with students.
I was particularly struck by your comments on phone addiction, and I鈥檓 already making an effort to reduce my reliance on my cell phone after hearing your perspective.
I look forward to seeing you around campus, and once again, thank you for sharing your insights with us.
Sincerely,
Imani Greene
- Or, in more expansive language that conveys feelings, not just facts, this example:
- Thanking for their time
Instead of just a quick thanks, show that you value their time. Acknowledge that they鈥檙e busy, but still made the effort to connect with you: "Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with our class on Wednesday. I really appreciate that, even with your many responsibilities, you made it a priority to engage with students like us." - Conveying enjoyment and engagement
Don鈥檛 just say you 鈥渆njoyed meeting them,鈥 but highlight what you found interesting or impactful about the interaction. This helps make the note feel more personal: "It was truly a pleasure to meet you and hear your insights." - Sharing a personal reflection
Rather than just repeating what they said, reflect on how it made you feel or what you鈥檒l do differently because of it. This shows that you鈥檙e not just listening, but really thinking about what was said: "Your thoughts on phone addiction were really eye-opening. I鈥檝e been reflecting on how much I rely on my phone, and your words motivated me to start cutting down on distractions." - Closing with anticipation and gratitude
Instead of just ending with another thanks, express that you鈥檙e excited about future interactions and reinforce your appreciation. It makes the note feel more genuine and shows your enthusiasm: "I look forward to seeing you around campus and once again, thank you for sharing your valuable perspective. I鈥檓 grateful for the opportunity to learn from you."
- Thanking for their time
Dig Deeper:
Pro Tips:
Common Written Mistakes to Avoid: Writing it right
Need-to-Know:
Professional communication isn't just about how you speak鈥攚riting well is just as important. Here are some common mistakes that can make your notes, emails or reports look unprofessional:
- "Your" vs. "you鈥檙e:" Double-check which one you鈥檙e using. 鈥淵our鈥 shows possession (e.g., 鈥測our idea鈥), while 鈥測ou鈥檙e鈥 is a contraction for 鈥測ou are鈥 (e.g., 鈥測ou鈥檙e welcome鈥).
- "Its" vs. "It鈥檚:" 鈥淚t鈥檚鈥 is short for 鈥渋t is,鈥 and 鈥渋ts鈥 is used for possession (e.g., 鈥渢he company met its goals鈥). Mix these up, and it鈥檚 an easy mistake to spot.
- Apostrophes: Don鈥檛 use apostrophes in plurals. It鈥檚 鈥淐Ds,鈥 not 鈥淐D鈥檚.鈥 The iPhone autocorrects to add unnecessary apostrophes a lot.
- "Myself" vs. "Me:" Use 鈥渕yself鈥 only when the subject of the sentence is 鈥淚,鈥 as in 鈥淚 taught myself.鈥 Otherwise, stick with 鈥渕e鈥 (e.g., 鈥淧lease contact me鈥). Also, always refer to yourself last when using me, as in 鈥淪hayna and me,鈥 not 鈥渕e and Shayna.鈥
Nice-to-Know:
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A Few Miscellaneous Tidbits: Random but essential advice you鈥檒l thank us for later
Need-to-Know:
When it comes to stepping into the professional world, your etiquette can make or break you. Here鈥檚 how to level up your game with a few simple changes:
- Watch your words:
- Skip 鈥淣o problem鈥濃攊nstead, say 鈥淵ou鈥檙e welcome.鈥 It鈥檚 more positive and professional.
- Avoid saying 鈥淵ou guys鈥 in professional settings鈥攗se 鈥渆veryone鈥 or 鈥渢eam鈥 instead.
- Pay attention to how often you say 鈥淚.鈥 鈥淲e鈥 is often appropriate, especially if it鈥檚 in reference to something you did with a group or team.
- Social media clean-Up: Make sure your profiles reflect the professional you, and not just your party self. It's all about showing your best side online. Employers DO check your social media and they DO make hiring decisions based on what they see there.
- Polished voicemail greeting: Re-record your voicemail to sound friendly, clear, and professional. You never know when your next big opportunity might call.
- Sophisticated email use: Keep your email signature clean and professional. Avoid anything too 鈥渃utesy鈥濃攖his is about looking the part in the workplace. Use a professional email address, even if you have to create a new one - 鈥渂eachygirl12@gmail.com鈥 doesn鈥檛 work for a resume.
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The Ultimate Guide to Tipping
Need-to-Know:
The American practice of tipping isn鈥檛 just about leaving extra cash鈥攊t鈥檚 a way to show appreciation for great service.
- No cash? Tip anyway: You should get in the habit of carrying some cash. If you don鈥檛 have any, see if the person has a business or personal Venmo so you can still tip them.
- Sit-down restaurants with a server: For good service, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. If the service is exceptional, go higher!
- Food pickup or delivery: Tip 10-15% of the bill, $2-$5 for pizza. Delivery drivers work hard to get your food to you, and a decent tip shows appreciation for their effort.
- Bartenders: Tip $1-$2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab. A good bartender makes sure your drinks are always flowing鈥攖ip accordingly!
- Tipping jars: No obligation, but feel free to contribute if you鈥檙e a regular or if you get great service. A small tip is a nice gesture when your barista or server goes the extra mile.
- Valet: Tip $2-$5 when your car is returned to you. They hustled around so you didn鈥檛 have to.
Nice-to-Know:
Pro Tipping Tips:
- Be generous when service is good: Tipping is a way to show your appreciation for good service. Don鈥檛 skimp if the service was great!
- Plan ahead: Carry a few small bills, especially when traveling or dining out. This makes it easier to tip when the opportunity arises.
- It鈥檚 about respect: Tipping is one of the best ways to show respect to those who provide great service.
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Navigating Social Events Like a Pro
Need-to-Know:
Social events are more than just a chance to hang out鈥攖hey鈥檙e an opportunity to leave a lasting positive impression on your host and fellow attendees. Dinner party? Casual gathering? Networking? Here鈥檚 how to handle social situations with confidence and consideration.
Interacting with Luminaries 鈥 Connecting with leaders opens doors and helps you learn from the best
When interacting with luminaries such as college leadership, elected officials, or prestigious community members, college students should keep a few key things in mind:
Nice-to-Know:
Dining at Someone's Home 鈥 how to be a good guest
Attending a dinner at someone鈥檚 home is a special occasion that requires an elevated level of etiquette to ensure a smooth, enjoyable evening for both guests and hosts. Here鈥檚 your go-to guide for navigating the dos and don'ts:
The Do鈥檚:
Before the Dinner:
During the Dinner:
The 顿辞苍鈥檛蝉:
Avoid using your phone during dinner, even if you step away for a bathroom break. Stay present and engaged.
Don鈥檛 take photos or post anything on social media unless the host gives you the green light. Respect their privacy.
Keep out of personal areas鈥攄on鈥檛 snoop around their home or touch their belongings (like remotes, papers, or devices) without permission.
Dining at a Restaurant as Someone鈥檚 Guest 鈥 how to order and avoid awkward moments
When you鈥檙e dining at a restaurant as a guest, there are a few extra etiquette rules to keep in mind to make sure everyone has a good time. Here鈥檚 how to navigate your dinner like a pro:
The Do鈥檚:
Before the Dinner:
The 顿辞苍鈥檛蝉:
If you鈥檙e using valet parking, don鈥檛 forget to carry some small bills to tip the valet ($2-$5) when you pick up your car.
If you鈥檙e dealing with a prix fixe menu (where you pay a set price for a limited choice of entrees), be sure to stick to the menu options and avoid exceeding the agreed-upon price for the host.
Attending a Symphony as a Guest 鈥 what to expect and how to behave at formal events
Going to a symphony or other cultural events can be an enriching experience, but it also comes with its own set of guidelines for behavior. Here鈥檚 a guide to help you navigate the event with respect and grace, making the experience enjoyable for you and everyone around you:
Dos:
顿辞苍鈥檛蝉:
Attending a Game as a Suite Guest 鈥 enjoying the perks without overstepping
Going to a sporting event in a suite is a VIP experience, and it comes with its own set of rules to ensure you鈥檙e respectful to your host and the other guests. Here鈥檚 how to handle it like you鈥檝e done it before:
Dos:
顿辞苍鈥檛蝉:
Additional Considerations:
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