Career Development Services
Professional Social Etiquette
Below are some basic etiquette tips for socializing in a professional setting.
Arrival
- Show up on time, ten minutes early is recommended.
- Turn off your cell phone.
- Place your name tag on the upper right side, toward your shoulder.
- Wear appropriate attire, clarify ahead of time.
- Use an official title (e.g., Dr. Rodriguez) when greeting someone.
- When introducing executives, begin with the highest ranking person (e.g., Ms. CEO, I would like you to meet Mr. Hiring Manager).
- Make sure that you hear the person’s name. If not, ask to have the name repeated.
- Make immediate eye contact and smile when introduced.
- Always shake hands from a standing position.
- Shake hands (web to web).
- Whenever possible, volunteer your name first. This demonstrates friendly confidence.
Socializing
- Make eye contact to build rapport and convey your interest, attention and confidence.
- Smile.
- If others order alcoholic beverages, do not feel obliged to order one also.
- Avoid topics that may be controversial or unsuitable (e.g., politics, gossip, religion and off-color jokes).
- Avoid foul or inappropriate language.
- Show active listening skills by asking open-ended questions.
- Bring up the weather, if all else fails.
Dining
- Be as polite to servers as you are to those with whom you are dining.
- Once seated, place your napkin in your lap.
- Put it on your chair when leaving the table temporarily.
- When finished eating, place your napkin to the left side of your plate.
- Cutlery should be used starting from the outside in.
- The bread plate is located on the left side. If you start the bread basket, always pass it to your right.
- Help yourself after the basket has circulated around the table.
- Your water glass, coffee cup, and other glassware are located on the right.
- Salt and pepper shakers always travel together.
- Wait for the host to begin eating or start when invited by the host to do so.
- Do not begin until everyone at your table is served.
Follow-up
- Collect a business card or contact information from individuals you met during the event.
- Send a thank-you note within 1-2 days to convey appreciation and professionalism.
