Careers & Employment

Business Etiquette for the New Graduate

(ARA)—After years of studying, new graduates must find something else to do. And while most graduates know how to dress appropriately, have their resume in order, and have solid experience, most are nervous about the initial steps when meeting interviewers.

As graduates get ready to take on the job market, here are some etiquette tips from Peggy Post, the great-grand-daughter-in-law of Emily Post. By following these five simple steps with everyone they meet, graduates and all applicants will be well on their way to success:

• Look interviewers in the eye.

• Give a firm handshake.

• Greet them n “How do you do?” or “How do you do, Mrs. Smith?”

• Say your name, slowly and clearly.

• Let your enthusiasm show.

Some other pointers for the interview:

Be on time: Even one minute late is too late. Travel to the site of the interview the day before so you know how long it takes to get there, and then add 10 or 20 extra minutes.

Be prepared: Read up on the company (go to the Internet or request the company’s latest annual report); know your own strengths and weaknesses; know your resume by heart; and do something no one likes to do ... practice. Ask yourself the questions you are likely to be asked and respond out loud. You’ll be surprised how different answers sound when spoken aloud.

Dress appropriately: Research the company, know what the dress code is, and then dress one notch up.

Names: Introduce yourself to the receptionist and your interviewers. Remember your interviewers’ names and use them.

Handshakes: Make sure you give a firm handshake: no limp fish or bone-crushers.

Say “Thanks”: At the end of the interview, stand, thank the interviewer for her time, look her in the eye and shake her hand. A short note of thanks is also a must.

Looking for more tips? Take a look at “The Etiquette Advantage in Business” by Peggy Post and Peter Post and “How Do You Work This Life Thing” by Lizzie Post.

Courtesy of ARAcontent