Quinn Wilson
In Motion Staff Writer
Back straight, chin up, shoulders back—these aren’t just must haves for marching bands and military personnel—especially when a college student is searching for a job.
Dr. Shana Deyo, a professor at Daytona State College, held a lunch seminar to help college students embrace business etiquette. When students placed their name tags on their person, one of the first things Dr. Deyo pointed out caused many students to fumble awkwardly with their tags. In meetings and conferences, a name tag is supposed to be on the right side of a shirt or jacket. The reason being is that, when shaking someone’s hand, the right hand is normally used. The eyes will automatically go toward the right side, therefore making it easier to read the name on the tag.
“Handshakes are only proper when both people are standing,” Deyo said. If a potential client or employer walks in the room, it’s common courtesy to stand and then shake his or her hand. “Your job is to get a job.” Deyo continued, explaining that handshakes were only a small part of the big picture.
Deyo pointed out one huge interviewee mishap from “Etiquette Essentials for Success at Work” by Jacqueline Whitmore, explaining that the number one reason applicants are rejected after the first interview is poor personal appearance. Sweating the small stuff is important, especially when meeting an employer for the first time.
Taking off sunglasses and hats when indoors are two things many people forget. Another mistake is that some interviewees forget to keep their clothing understated. Acceptable clothing colors are black, navy, taupe and charcoal. White is no longer a seasonal color and can also be used. Deyo also suggested sticking to basic attire such as suits, skirts and blouses. Ensuring that clothes are neat, clean and not too revealing are also must haves.
Not all interviews and meetings happen in the office. Sometimes employees will be invited to a breakfast, lunch, or even a dinner. Introductions are always by level of importance—but the boss is not to be introduced first. It’s the client that is considered of utmost importance, then the boss, then everyone else. Small talk and jokes can help keep a meal light and refreshing, but Deyo suggests to keep any off-color comments out of the picture.