Ladylike Behavior: Workplace Do’s & Don’ts

We’ve heard the disturbing statistics of the earning power of women versus men in the workplace. It’s somewhat hard to imagine that even in 2017 one could quickly conclude that this is still a man’s world, but. Fortunately for us, we know the underlying truth still remains that despite the existing inequities, James Brown was right when he said that it would be nothing without a woman or a girl. So, one of the most effective ways to resist the status quo and stand firm against discrimination at work is to stay on your p’s and q’s. Oprah said, “excellence is the best deterrent to racism or sexism.”
Here’s a snapshot of a few etiquette essentials to help you shine on the j-o-b:

DO

-Stand for formal introductions. Also, give a firm handshake along with direct eye contact in order to make a great first impression.
-Arrive 15 minutes prior to every meeting. “To be early is to be on time. To be on time is to be late.”
-Be prepared: “Preparation prevents poor performance.” Always do the necessary amount of research on the people attending the meeting, as well as the topic to be discussed.

-Focus your attention on being solution-oriented. All organizations have challenges and opportunities for growth. No one wants someone calling their baby/work ugly or ineffective. Be sure to use constructive yet positive terms when offering alternative ideas or strategies for change.
-Minimize cell phone interruptions during meetings by either silencing your phone or turning it off prior to the meeting. If the call is urgent and unavoidable, excuse yourself and explain that the call is very important before accepting it. Leave the room if possible as to not involve the members of the meeting with the details of your phone conversation.
DON’T

-Lose sight of why you are there. Avoid inappropriate conversations that are too personal, sexual, or discriminating in nature.
-Seek personal validation in the office. Allow your strong work ethic and commitment to quality work to distinguish you from your peers.
-Ever compromise your professionalism, even at social work events.

-Allow yourself to become closed-minded on the job. Remain open to new opportunities, helpful suggestions, and change.
-Be afraid to add a personal touch to your work, as long as it is still professional in nature. Don’t focus on the task so much that you forget to connect with the people on your team. Walk clients to the elevator, send thank you notes, congratulate colleagues on their outstanding work, etc.