Not sure how to prepare for the professional workplace? Trust me, I get it! Here are 11 workplace etiquette rules and career tips to know for your first job or internship that are not taught in school.

1. Send a thank-you note within 24 hours of an interview or a networking event.

Most younger professionals don’t do this, so it becomes that much more valuable when someone does. This shows the interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the opportunity or relationship, and that you will take initiative. It is also simply polite to express your gratitude to someone who has sacrificed their time on your behalf.

Make it a genuine expression of gratitude. Be sure to highlight something specific you discussed in your conversation, interview, or meeting.

2. Stand up every time you greet someone.

When you are meeting someone new, stand up, firmly shake their hand, make eye contact, and smile. This communicates respect and intentionality.

3. Arrive early (but not too early) to interviews, meetings, etc.

Arriving no more than 10 minutes early and no less than 5 minutes early to interviews, meetings, and so on. However, arriving 20-30 minutes early is too early and will likely stress that person out.

I often like to get to the building about 20 minutes early so I can wait in my car until I’m ready to walk in.

4. Don’t put your bag on the table in a meeting.

Keep the table clean and clutter-free. This is a universal rule for anywhere you go with a purse or bag. Don’t put it on the table, as it is considered poor etiquette and unsanitary.

5. When someone walks into your workspace, stop typing.

When someone walks into your office or up to your table to speak with you, stop what you are doing. This communicates respect and intentional listening.

6. Use a person’s name in conversation.

Use people’s names in conversation, but don’t overdo it. Once per conversation is sufficient. Especially when you are meeting them for the first time or if it’s someone you have recently met.

This shows that you actually took the time to learn and remember their name. This is a little detail that shows great intentionality.

7. Never show negative emotions in writing.

Don’t email with frustration, sarcasm, anger, or annoyance. Little tip: if you’re upset, wait at least 10 minutes before responding so you don’t say something you’ll regret.

Additionally, be careful with writing using sarcasm or humor because it can come off in a way that it is not intended to.

8. Praise Publicly. Critique Privately.

Praise others in public because who doesn’t love to feel appreciated!

Additionally, if you need to correct someone or provide constructive criticism, then do so in a private setting. Doing this ensures you will not make the person feel intentionally demeaned and, in turn, hurt their pride, which can cause friction in your relationship and workplace drama.

9. Make eye contact and have a firm handshake.

When talking to someone hold eye contact and be genuienly enaged in that conversation. When shaking someone’s hand, in general, give them a firm, respectable handshake.

10. Don’t gossip.

Gossip travels, and it is not biblical. Remember that, as a Christian, you never know who is watching your actions, trying to figure out what Christianity is all about, and their decision may be affected by your actions if they think you are acting hypocritically. The way you carry yourself and navigate the world is especially important for this reason.

11. Own your mistakes quickly and calmly.

Own your mistakes, apologize, and ensure you do your due diligence so it doesn’t happen again. No need to over-apologize, just give one substantial response, such as, “Thank you for catching that, I’ve corrected it.”

I hope this post helped you gain a few quick tips and changes to make in the workplace and in any professional spaces, so you can carry yourself with poise and purpose.

With Love,

Isabella XO