Jamila Robinson, Staff Writer

Welcome Back! Spring break is over and we are now in the final stretch of the school year. Some of you are preparing to transition into your chosen career paths, ready to engage with the workforce and all that it holds for you. Others may be taking a break, perhaps enrolling in spring courses and looking forward to enjoying your summer away from academics.

Regardless of your plans, focusing on enhancing your skills in professional development is essential to your career performance. These skills come from valuable lessons you’ve gathered throughout your academic journey.

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 being the basic practices and personal processes that you as an individual will need in order to help you navigate the professional landscape. However, for the purposes of this article we are going with the Cambridge University definition: training that is given to managers and people working in professions to increase their knowledge and skills.

We shouldn’t take for granted that everyone is completely familiar with these processes, and it’s always beneficial to provide reminders. Below 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 because 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

– Create an email that is professional. You represent the organization, not yourself.

– Be sure to create an email signature that includes your contact information.

– Check your emails in a timely manner.

– Do not open suspicious emails and do not use your work laptop for play, for they are typically monitored.

Phone

– Create a voice message that is professional.

– Be sure to respond to messages in a timely manner during hours that are appropriate. 

– When leaving a message, be sure to state your name and number in the beginning of the message, and again at the end. Speak clearly and slowly.

Meetings

– Utilize your calendar and check daily for any meetings that you are involved in.

– Attend meetings on time and be prepared with some writing tools and paper.

– Take your laptop, but remember the charger.

– Put your cell phone on silent.

– Ask questions, pay attention and be ready to provide input.

– If you are involved in a project, keep all stakeholders informed about status updates or any changes. Maintaining open and effective communication is essential.

Attire

– Watch the room and pay attention to what the dress culture is like for the organization.

– Do not overuse perfumes/cologne. It is important to be mindful of others in the office.

– Do not wear anything that is ripped/torn/with holes to the office.

– Business casual is not jeans/short skirts/revealing tops.

Social Media

– Make sure to find out the social media policy upon starting a new job, for posting might not be advised.

– Do not talk about things happening within the workplace on any platform; it could be a breach of contract.

– Best practice is to avoid posting anything that would hinder your chances of gainful employment.

Remember that if you will be running late, out sick or experiencing some other emergency, inform your direct supervisor. If you have questions about your benefits, contact Human Resources. If you have questions about your pay, 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, and 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.

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. These associations 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 sure to work the room and meet other people outside of your company and 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 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, the presentation gives 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. 

If you want to gain some additional knowledge on this topic, be sure to visit the Harvard University professional development website here.

La Salle’s Career Center is also available as a resource for students, providing advice on networking, career readiness and more. Scheduled and drop-in appointments to meet with Career Counselors and Career Peer Advisors are available through Handshake, and through their office contact info available here.