As I was growing up, my mother would pass judgement on my social transgressions by claiming “Emily Post would roll over in her grave.” It wasn’t until college that I finally learned there really was someone named Emily Post. Her rules of etiquette came to life during an enlightening one-credit-hour course taught by Mary Alice Banks.
Unfortunately, most colleges no longer offer etiquette courses. Lack of social orientation instruction is increasingly apparent in business settings today. So, I made a trip to Barnes & Noble Saturday afternoon to meet someone who is a full-time etiquette advocate–Emily Post’s great-granddaughter-in-law, Peggy Post. Peggy was signing copies of her 12 books, including an one I especially like: “The Etiquette Advantage in Business.” The 366-page book is loaded with important tips that will help in job searches and succeeding on the job.
While she elaborates on each point in the book, here are Peggy’s top five job-interview tips:
- Don’t be late
- Be prepared
- Dress one notch up
- Smile, speak clearly, and look your interviewer in the eye
- Thank them twice. One after interview and again in writing.
Peggy Post is a director of the Emily Post Institute. She writes monthly columns for Good Housekeeping and Parents magazines, and she conducts hundreds of speeches and media interviews annually.
I think etiquette should be offered on college campuses. It’s such an important part of many professions, including public relations, and most people have no clue how to behave politely. Etiquitte is being slowly phased out of our lives with each next generation, which is a shame.
I was searching for tips to be successful in interview which is to be held tomorrow or a day after.I found valuable tips on your website.
Thanks in advance.
Zaheer A Mirza