Jamila Robinson, Staff Writer

As you pursue your higher education goals, you’ll encounter various life lessons—some will come easily, while others may be more challenging. Yes, that’s correct; there’s no way to avoid it. If you’ve been coasting through your classes, submitting assignments late and doing only the bare minimum, this article aims to help you navigate the essential lessons you’ll need for “life’s classroom.”

Professional development can be defined in several ways. The most common is a way to improve your skills and knowledge to advance your career. However, for the purposes of this article we are going with a different definition: the basic practices and personal processes that you as an individual will need in order to help you navigate the professional landscape. 

We shouldn’t take for granted that everyone is completely familiar with these processes, and it’s always beneficial to provide reminders. Here are some essential professional etiquette tips for new graduates to remember as you embark on your career with your newly earned degree. It’s also important to feel confident in addressing matters that impact you personally. Unfortunately, your parents won’t be able to “speak on your behalf.” This transition may be challenging for some, but it will become easier as you grow accustomed to advocating for yourself.

Email 

1. Create an email that is professional–you represent the organization, not yourself
2. Be sure to create an email signature that includes your contact information
3. Check your emails in a timely manner
4. Do not open suspicious emails, and do not do use the work laptop for play, as they are monitored

Phone

1. Create an email that is professional–you represent the organization, not yourself
2. Be sure to create an email signature that includes your contact information
3. Check your emails in a timely manner
4. Do not open suspicious emails, and do not do use the work laptop for play, as they are monitored

Meetings

1. Utilize your calendar and check daily for any meetings that you are involved in
2. Attend meetings on time and be prepared with some writing tools and paper
3. Take your laptop and remember the charger 
4. Put your cell phone on silent
5. Engage: ask questions, pay attention and be ready to provide input
6. Provide feedback and updates if you are working on projects

Attire

1. Watch the room and pay attention to what the dress culture is like for the organization
2. Do not overuse perfumes/cologne and be mindful of others in the office
3. Do not wear anything that is ripped/torn/with holes in the office
4. Business casual is not jeans/short skirts/revealing tops unless otherwise informed

Social Media

1. Make sure to find out the policy of this upon starting a new job, as posting might not be advised
2. Do not talk about things happening in the workplace on any platform because it could be a breach of contract 
3. Do not post anything that would hinder your chances of gainful employment

Remember that if you will be out or running late, out sick or have some other emergency, inform your direct supervisor. If you have questions about your benefits, you will contact Human Resources. If you have questions about your pay, you will contact Payroll. If any issues should occur on the job, you will also talk with Human Resources.

At times, you may be paired with someone who will guide you through the organization or provide training; this is not a moment for complaints. Instead, stay attentive, ask questions and seek clarity if you’re uncertain. Remember, this is a trial period: you were hired to fulfill a specific role, and the first 90 days serve as your evaluation period. Ensure that you are performing well to secure your position permanently. If you are involved in a project, keep all stakeholders informed about status updates or any changes. Maintaining open and effective communication is essential.

At some point, you may find yourself attending a professional association conference, and while this might make you feel a bit anxious, there’s no need to worry. Students and recent graduates are genuinely welcomed and encouraged to participate in these events. Professional associations are eager to expand their membership, with fostering engagement as a primary objective. Moreover, they strive to create peer-mentor relationships, connecting members to valuable opportunities. Attending these conferences is an excellent way to enhance your professional development and engagement.

At these events you will meet other industry leaders, recent graduates and well-seasoned professionals, be able to work the room and meet other people outside of your company, and gain expertise. It is also a reminder to you that networking isn’t merely an exchange of business cards but it can be a very rewarding connection where you can gain so much creatively, professionally and personally. This is a great opportunity to work on your soft skills and practice working the room. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Look at the agenda beforehand and identify speakers and sessions that are important to you. Sometimes presentation material is made available to attendees after the event, so don’t worry if you miss a session you were interested in.
2. It is better to attend with friends, but also meet new people, have lunch with them, talk about the professional topics and hobbies and be an active listener.
3. Be sure to have paper or virtual business cards to collect and share; remember you are making connections.
4. If you can submit a proposal to present, presentations give others the opportunity to see you in action and the passion behind the person will show.

Finally, have fun; conferences do not have to be all work, especially if you are in a different city or country. Get out and explore with other conference attendees, and be safe.