In our modern world of cell phones, IMing and Twitter contact between people has become quite brief. Communication has been pared down to abbreviations like PLZ and THNX. Not sure what these mean, it will only take you about 30 seconds to find out on Google. All of this technology has greatly improved our effectiveness as professionals but there is one detail that must not be ignored when looking for a job…manners or etiquette. When conducting a job search it is imperative that we return to some of the tried and true points of etiquitte that our friend Emily would have preached.
• Always write a thank you note after an interview, phone or face to face.
• Arrive to any meeting or interview on time. Being prompt is a sign of professionalism. Set aside extra time. Make sure you have clear directions. Do not be late!!! No excuses.
• Dress for the part. Business attire is essential. Try to find out what is typical office attire for this company. Suits? Sport coats? Skirts? Look like you belong.
• Be prepared with the name of the person that you are meeting. What is his/her position? Can you do any research, via internet, on him/her or the company? Make sure that you are pronouncing his/her name correctly.
• Be neat and tidy. Look like you are seriously interested in the job instead of ready for a night out on the town.
• Have on your “game face,” which should include eye contact, a firm handshake and a calm demeanor.
