Professional Etiquette is difficult to discuss because much of it is intangible. Yet there are expectations in the business world that you know what is acceptable and what isn’t. Understanding the workplace culture can guide you in determining what’s appropriate in a given company.

UNDERSTANDING WORKPLACE CULTURES

In any organization there is a culture based on shared philosophies, ideologies, values, beliefs, assumptions, expectations, attitudes and norms. It is important to have an understanding of an organization’s culture to understand what is expected of you as an employee, to learn how you can fit in, or to understand why you might experience discomfort in a certain organization. Cultures are based on:

• Certain behaviors--rituals, ceremonies, language commonly used (At Elmhurst we have graduation, convocation; we talk about syllabi and matriculation)
• Norms shared by working groups in the organization ("A fair day’s work for a fair day’s pay")
• Dominant values held by an organization (At Elmhurst we talk about quality of education, being student centered)
• Philosophy that guides an organization’s policy toward employees and customers (Equality in the workplace no matter what position is held)
• Rules of the game when joining the organization or "learning the ropes" in order to become an accepted member (dress code, code of conduct)
• The feeling or climate conveyed by the physical layout of the organization and the way in which members of the organization interact with "outsiders" (The layout of our campus lends itself to a feeling of conservative education behind the ivy walls)

DRESS FOR SUCCESS

We have all heard that first impressions last forever and it’s true! Therefore you want to put your best foot forward when interacting with employers whether you are at a career fair, an interview or a networking function. Professional business attire is always a safe bet when you aren’t sure how to dress for an interview or career-related function. It is recommended that you error on the side of caution and dress in a conservative manner. If you do so, you are highly unlikely to create a negative impression or find yourself sorely out of place.

Remember to follow daily personal hygiene to prepare yourself in the most polished and professional manner for career-related functions, such as interviews and career fairs. It is equally important to dress appropriately and wear attire that are also in a clean, polished or pressed condition.

BUSINESS/INTERVIEW LUNCHES

These occasions can create additional nervousness because the setting is different and the stakes seem higher. Not only do you have to answer and ask questions, you have to remember all your table manners and eat a meal! The rules of etiquette that guide these situations are important and too many to cover in this booklet. It is highly advisable that you refer to the Career Services library, a local library or bookstore for a book on Business Etiquette which offers detailed information to make your luncheon a success!