PROFESSIONAL NECESSITIES

The term “professional” takes on many meanings depending on the venue in which you work. However, there are certain things that everyone who strives to be at the top of their game should know.

Here is my list of professional essentials:

1. Know how to introduce yourself and others properly.
2. Be able to make appropriate eye contact.
3. Understand the power of a smile and pleasant demeanor.
4. Men and women need a firm confident handshake.
5. Standing for introductions.
6. Business card etiquette.
7. Knowing the art of small talk.
8. Observe Internet courtesy.
9. How to use personal technology courteously.
10.Develop a stationery wardrobe to include correspondence cards for “handwritten” thank you notes.
11. Navigate dining situations for business and pleasure with ease.
12. The ability to work a room and network effectively.
13. Dress for success in all situations.

If you are not confident in all these areas…you may be damaging your chances for getting a job and possibly, keeping it or advancing in it. We are judged much more on our social skills than any of our other talents.