Experience Davis

3 Tips on Business Etiquette

1) Always be on time (or better yet, 5 minutes early). Be prepared for meetings and deadlines.

2) Be wary of your online presence. Everyone can find ANYTHING on the web these days. Do you really need that picture/post/link on Facebook?

3) Master a good handshake! To extend on that, mom was right... you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Remember that your first day, first solo project, first meeting faciliation all count in a big way.. be prepared and go the extra mile. Dress and groom appropriately and be respectful of peers and superiors at all times..

5 Common Mistakes of Emerging Professionals

1) Not considering anything but their "dream" job (i.e., not considering entry level/receptionist/lackey in their chosen field to get a foot in the door)

2) Overestimating (and/or over-representing) their skills to potential employers both during the hiring process and once on the job. Be honest! Tell your employer if you have the experience, but be forthcoming in your willingness to try if they'll take a chance!

3) Failing to network (joining professional associations, socializing professionally at office/work mixers & functions)

4) Failing to be observant of office culture, employer needs, social norms in the workplace, etc. Is this the right environment to discuss your partying weekend? Or are you having lunch with some senior executives?

5) Act and dress the part. You are a professional now. Some offices are very relaxed, but some will still chafe if you come in unkempt and acting like the world owes you a living.You need to work harder as the new guy. Speak up about your contributions and acknowledge those of others! Dont' be a wallflower, but don't be a braggart either, find a nice balance and become involved in your workplace.

Courtney Hans