Professional Standards – Career Center /careercenter Tue, 06 Jan 2026 23:50:25 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 Professional Attire /careercenter/news/professional-attire/ Fri, 10 Jan 2025 22:45:55 +0000 /careercenter-s/?post_type=stories&p=599 Your attire plays a big role in professional networking, interviews, career fairs, and most work environments. How you dress depends on factors like the organization, industry, company culture, and your own culture. When in doubt, err on the side of dressing more professionally. General Guidelines Clothes Tailored or fit well In good condition, wrinkle-free, and...]]>

Your attire plays a big role in professional networking, interviews, career fairs, and most work environments.
How you dress depends on factors like the organization, industry, company culture, and your own culture. When in doubt, err on the side of dressing more professionally.

General Guidelines

Clothes
  • Tailored or fit well
  • In good condition, wrinkle-free, and lint-free
Shoes
  • Neat and clean
  • Dress shoes in good condition
Accessories
  • Belts should match your shoes
  • Jewelry should be simple and moderate
Hair and Makeup
  • Well-groomed hair
  • Natural-style nails and makeup
Fragrance, Piercings, Tattoos
  • Avoid strong fragrances (stick to deodorant)
  • Piercings and tattoos should align with company culture

Business Professional Attire

Add to the general guidelines:

Clothing
  • Solid, dark, or neutral colors
  • Light colors for shirts/blouses underneath
  • Matching suit jacket and pants/skirt
  • Avoid stripes, bright prints, or bold colors
Shoes
  • Closed-toe heels or dress shoes
Personal Items
  • Keep essentials only
  • Turn off and stow phones
  • Use a portfolio, professional bag, or simple purse

Check out our for business professional inspiration.

Business Casual Attire

Clothing
  • Pants/slacks, dresses, and skirts
  • Blazers and cardigans
  • No jeans, shorts, sundresses, or athletic wear
  • Skirts and dresses should be knee-length when standing
Shoes
  • Closed-toe shoes, flats, or boots
  • Comfortable shoes if walking is required

Check out our for inspiration for business casual inspiration.

Things to Avoid

  • Clothing: Shorts, athletic wear, tight/revealing clothing, bright colors, wild patterns
  • Accessories: Large jewelry, hats, sunglasses
  • Shoes: Sandals, stilettos (keep heels under 3″)
  • Other: Dirty or wrinkled clothes, heavy fragrances, graphic shirts

Professional Attire on a Budget

  • Borrow items from friends or family
  • Shop at thrift stores or clearance sales
  • Access resources like the Humanix Career Clothing Bank
  • Attend the JCPenney SUIT UP Event (51 partnership for discounted career wear). Check Handshake for details in the winter quarter.
]]> Professional Etiquette /careercenter/news/professional-etiquette/ Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:28:19 +0000 /careercenter-s/?post_type=stories&p=585 Understanding Professionalism Professionalism is more than just presenting yourself well—it’s about earning trust and respect. Whether you’re navigating the workplace or building new connections, maintaining professionalism is key. Below are some essential tips to help you stay polished in any professional setting. Small Talk In professional settings, avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion....]]>

Understanding Professionalism

Professionalism is more than just presenting yourself well—it’s about earning trust and respect. Whether you’re navigating the workplace or building new connections, maintaining professionalism is key.

Below are some essential tips to help you stay polished in any professional setting.

Small Talk

In professional settings, avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion. Be cautious with personal questions, such as “Do you have kids?” For more small talk tips, visit our networking貹.

Handshakes

In the U.S., a handshake is a standard greeting in professional situations. Maintain firm, but not crushing, handshakes—no “fish hand” or sweaty palms. Align web-to-web and give one or two solid shakes while introducing yourself with a greeting like, “Hi, my name is…”

Your Online Presence

Be mindful of how your online presence is perceived. Posts, comments, and shared content shape how others view you, including potential employers. Avoid sharing personal opinions or trivial details that could be misinterpreted.

  • Set your social media privacy settings to private, but remember anything online could be seen by anyone.
  • Use LinkedIn for professional networking, not platforms like Twitter or Snapchat.
  • Google yourself regularly to see what employers might find.

Lunch Meetings & Interviews

  • Place your napkin on your lap immediately when seated.
  • Start with the outermost utensils and work your way in for each course.
  • Avoid messy foods like spaghetti, and never order the most expensive item.
  • Wait until everyone is served before eating, and treat waitstaff respectfully.
  • Do not order alcohol during an interview.

Alcohol & Substances

  • Alcohol: At company events, drink responsibly and avoid overindulgence.
    • Never order alcohol during an interview.
    • Once employed, stick to one drink and avoid trying new drinks.
  • Marijuana: Be aware of your employer’s stance on marijuana use.
    • Some industries prohibit its use, even in states where it’s legal.
    • Always follow company policies and avoid anything that could impair judgment or motor skills.

Professional Email Etiquette

Emails are essential for professional communication, but can be easily misinterpreted.

  • Always use a clear subject line and professional language.
  • Avoid abbreviations and emojis, and always check for grammar and spelling errors.
  • Respond within 24-48 hours, and acknowledge emails if more time is needed.
  • Use standard fonts and formatting, and avoid “reply all” unless necessary.
  • Ensure attachments are correct and appropriately sized.

RSVPs & Cancellations

Always respond to invitations, even if you can’t attend. If you accept an invite, make sure to follow through. If you need to cancel, communicate promptly and professionally.

Dress for the Situation

Dress according to the professional environment and occasion. When in doubt, opt for a more professional look. For examples of business attire, visit our  .

If you ever find yourself unsure about handling a professional situation, reach out to a Career Advisor or Make an Appointment.

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