17 Business, Life & Social Media Etiquette Tips For Millennials
If the Internet hasn’t taught us anything else, it’s that some people have no clue how to conduct themselves in public. If you’re young, say in your early teens, it’s okay for a little while. But soon you’re going to run out of excuses for being ratchet. Especially if you absolutely need to make a lasting impression for a job, a school entrance interview, or your own wedding.
That’s where Carolyn Powery, of The Etiquette and Image Institute of Florida, steps in to save the day. Carolyn is a professional etiquette coach in West Palm Beach, Fla., and I was lucky enough to get a chance to speak with her about Millennials and manners. Carolyn has experience with business and social etiquette, and had gems of wisdom to offer those who have no clue how to handle themselves with grace and style.
According to Carolyn, there are many benefits to using etiquette, including a boost of confidence, improved self esteem and relationships, and it could possibly lead to more leadership positions. Even CEOs with tattoos and piercings have to know how to conduct themselves when it comes to making business moves.
Here are some pointers that Carolyn says may help you along your journey.
Business etiquette
1. Prepare for networking events as you would a job interview.
“At least have an idea of who will be (at a networking event) beforehand so you can be prepared. Have an idea of who you want to work with, and the reason why. Building relationships is the name of the game in networking, and could earn you millions of dollars. It is about listening and learning about the other person, and not you dominating the conversation. Connect with three people, and follow up with them."
2. Dress for success.
“Make sure that when you go to a networking event, dress professionally. A first impression is a lasting impression. It takes less than seven seconds for someone to figure out if they want to do business with you.
Millennials are relaxed and trendy, but the trending and casual look is not appropriate for all settings. Ladies should avoid wearing stilettos at a business meeting. Your walk should exude grace, and confidence.
"A first impression is a lasting impression. People judge you before you open your mouth.
[Tweet "It takes less than seven seconds for an individual to determine if they want to do business with you."]
How you choose to dress tells employers a lot about you, whether you are serious about getting the job, if you would be a good representation for the company, or if they think it’s worth investing in you. 95% of employers said a jobseeker's personal appearance affected their opinion of the applicant's suitability for the job. Dressing professionally will give you a boost of self-confidence, and a competitive edge. So make it count if you have to make an impression."
3. Always be punctual.
“It’s very important that you’re punctual, because you never know who is observing you.
The people who have the advantage (at most networking events) are the ones who are there on time. A lot of times at networking events, the CEO, or other [department heads] in the company, may be there for a short time because they may have another function to attend. If you get there late, you may miss your opportunity.”
4. Good posture, firm handshake, eye contact.
“A firm handshake and eye contact makes a difference,” Carolyn says, a handshake communicates that you are either confident or a wimp. “Have a smile, good posture, a firm handshake, make eye contact, say your full name - not a nickname - and repeat the other person’s name. A CFO, once shared with me that a person can have an impeccable resume, but a dead fish handshake will cost them a job."
5. Your business cards make a difference, too.
“Your business card is a representation of you and your brand. When you present a business card, the address should be facing the person you’re giving it to, and you should have a business card holder as well. Do not treat your business cards like you're giving out free coupons. You only want to distribute business cards to individuals you want to do business with.”
6. Eat before job interviews or networking events.
“A lot of times at a networking event, food is provided. Don’t go there thinking you’re going to have a full course meal...and don’t stand by the food table. Networking is for connecting, If you’re hungry, eat something light before you arrive to avoid over eating.”
7. Send a thank you card.
“If you’ve connected with someone you wanted to connect with [at a networking event], or someone connected you with [the head of a company], show your gratitude for the connection by making a call, sending a handwritten thank you note or email. [These gesture] can create long [lasting relationships]."
8. Watch how you conduct yourself at office parties.
“Don’t drink too much, even though you’re not on the clock, you’re still being watched, and you could end up drinking yourself out of a job. Dress for the occasion - not to sexy, not to casual. Make sure you mingle at the party, participate in activities, and be prepared for small talk.
Avoid subjects that center around politics and religion. Those discussion can get pretty heated. People feel very strong about those subjects, and you don't want to cause a fight."
Life etiquette
9. There is a time and place to use your cell phone.
"Cell phone technology brings out the worst and the best in people. There are many cell phone faux pas committed daily, [and there are] people talking loudly [on their phones] in public places [all the time], such as banks, business meetings, and doctors offices, to name a few. The only exception [to using a cell phone] during a business meeting is if someone is in the hospital, or your wife is pregnant and going into labor soon. Prior to the meeting, just let the person in charge of the meeting know that you may have to excuse yourself to answer the phone.”
Another cell phone violation is text messaging to the point that you are not aware of the people around you, causing a [foot] traffic jam."
10. If you’re a single parent, don’t bring home a man/woman you don’t plan to marry.
"I think it’s very important that as a single parent, you should not introduce your children early on in a dating relationship, or bring a date to your home when you're not sure where the relationship is going to go. You have to keep your children’s emotional well being in mind, because kids can attach very easily. This decision could result in confusion."
11. Don’t show up to the party empty handed.
“I think it’s rude, and you should take something to show your appreciation.
Even if the person says you don’t have to bring anything, it’s still polite to bring something. It could be desert, a flower, chocolate, or wine. Also, don't take home the unopened wine that you brought to the dinner party."
12. You don’t have to photograph or video record everything.
“Unless you’re the official photographer for an event, please remember that you don’t need to record everything that happens. Especially at weddings. The bride and groom have spent thousands of dollars planning for their special day. Your self appointment as the photographer shows a lack of respect.”
13. Respond to an RSVP invite.
“It’s important that you respond promptly. If something comes up at the last minute, such as not being able to attend the wedding, you should apologize, and send them a gift. Especially if you end up canceling after the bride and groom have included you in their wedding cost.”
Social media etiquette
14. Don’t break up with someone on social media.
“It’s a big no no to break up with someone over social media. Have enough respect to talk to the person face to face. That way you get a sense of the person's emotions.
“Also, putting your dirty laundry [online] for everyone to see can cause animosity. With people adding in their two cents, it gets bigger, like a snowball effect.”
15. No vague social media posts.
“That could open the door to people DM’ing you private messages [that you don’t want]. It's best to address the person directly, rather than second guessing, because miscommunication could be the culprit."
16. Don’t start social media fights.
[Tweet ""People need to learn to express themselves without insulting other people.""] Keep in mind that everyone’s opinion is important, and you should not take it personal. Respect other people’s
opinion, and agree to disagree.”
17. Watch what you post.
“Posting inappropriate photos of yourself, and using bad language, can affect you socially and professionally. There is a high percentage of employers looking at social media pages. A potential employer or [or your current employer] may see your social media page, and see something that could be offensive, and they wouldn’t want you to represent their company."
“In fact, 96% of businesses are participating in social media marketing. That’s why it’s important to be careful about what you post. Don’t go on social media and complain or criticize your job. You need to keep it to yourself and maintain professionalism."
____________________________________________
Carolyn Powery is a national etiquette coach, author, trainer and speaker. She is the coauthor of Madam CEO: How to Think and Act Like a Chief Executive; coauthor of Boys to Men: A Guide for African American Boys, and has been featured in Southern Lady Magazine, Palm Beach Today International Magazine and NBC 6 in the Mix [South Florida].
Some of her clients include The Mosaic Group, The Jewish Community Center of the Greater Palm Beaches, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Delta Academy, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Men of Tomorrow, Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, and more. Connect with her online at theetiquetteandimageinstituteofflorida.com
- Business Etiquette for Millennials | Lindsey Pollak ›
- Six job etiquette tips leaders need to teach millennials - The Globe ... ›
- Five business etiquette tips all millennials need to know | Clise ... ›
- Millennials: Why Your Business Etiquette Matters More Than Ever ... ›
- 9 Email Etiquette Rules For Millennials (And Everyone Else ... ›
ItGirl 100 Honors Black Women Who Create Culture & Put On For Their Cities
As they say, create the change you want to see in this world, besties. That’s why xoNecole linked up with Hyundai for the inaugural ItGirl 100 List, a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table. Across regions and industries, these women embody the essence of discovering self-value through purpose, honey! They're fierce, they’re ultra-creative, and we know they make their cities proud.
VIEW THE FULL ITGIRL 100 LIST HERE.
Don’t forget to also check out the ItGirl Directory, featuring 50 Black-woman-owned marketing and branding agencies, photographers and videographers, publicists, and more.
THE ITGIRL MEMO
I. An ItGirl puts on for her city and masters her self-worth through purpose.
II. An ItGirl celebrates all the things that make her unique.
III. An ItGirl empowers others to become the best versions of themselves.
IV. An ItGirl leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and integrity.
V. An ItGirl paves the way for authenticity and diversity in all aspects of life.
VI. An ItGirl uses the power of her voice to advocate for positive change in the world.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
'Freaknik' Chronicles: A Candid Conversation With Jermaine Dupri And Uncle Luke
As a child, I was captivated by my mom's vivid tales of Freaknik '92 and '93 – the legendary parties, the infectious music, the wild energy that engulfed Atlanta. Yet, beneath her nostalgic recollections lay a deeper curiosity about the true essence of this cultural phenomenon. Now, with Hulu's latest documentary, Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told, executive produced by Jermaine Dupri and Uncle Luke, the veil has been lifted, revealing the untold history and impact of Freaknik. It's a journey that transcends mere nostalgia; it's an exploration of controversy, celebration, and the seismic influence this event had on Atlanta's landscape and beyond.
But amidst the pulsating beats and the bustling streets of Atlanta, a different story simmered beneath the surface. For every note of music and every surge of energy, there were whispers of chaos and commotion, traffic snarled for miles around. The documentary doesn't shy away from these realities; instead, it confronts them head-on, painting a nuanced portrait of Freaknik's impact – the highs, the lows, and the downright chaotic. Through candid interviews and raw footage, Jermaine Dupri and Uncle Luke peel back the layers, revealing a narrative both complex and compelling.
At its core, Freaknik was more than just a party – it was a movement. It became a rite of passage for HBCU students, particularly those from the illustrious AUC schools. For one fleeting week, the streets of Atlanta pulsated with a dynamic rhythm, echoing the vibrant essence of community. It wasn't just about the music or the fashion; it was about reclaiming space, asserting identity, and celebrating the richness of Black culture.
Freaknik was an economic powerhouse, igniting a new flame in Atlanta's economy. From local businesses to up-and-coming artists, everyone felt the ripple effect of Freaknik's presence. It was a testament to the power of community, creativity, and collective celebration. In a recent interview with executive producers Jermaine Dupri and Uncle Luke, they shed further light on the enduring influence of this iconic event and its significance in shaping cultural landscapes.
As an alumna of Clark Atlanta University, the documentary film hit home for me as some of my most cherished memories are from my matriculation at the institution. Jermaine Dupri touched on the importance of HBCUs to Freaknik, highlighting how these historically black colleges and universities served as the beating heart of the event, providing a cultural hub for students to converge, celebrate, and showcase their talents.
It's a sentiment echoed by many who recognize the profound role HBCUs played in shaping the spirit and identity of Freaknik, underscoring the significance of these institutions in fostering a sense of community and belonging for generations of young Black individuals.
“HBCUs are everything about Freaknik. It's the energy. I'm getting more educated on how uneducated the world is about the HBCUs and the energy that's been put out there. I think back to Deion [Sanders] at Jackson State saying that he wanted to take that energy to these HBCUs to give them that attention, Jermaine said. “That's partially part of what we're doing with this Freaknik documentary because the HBCUs have so much energy, and they have put out so many things that become Black culture and Black history. The history books have not been written the way they’re supposed to be, so it's important that we do things like this documentary to help build that energy.”
Uncle Luke further explains how the documentary touched on the legacy as well as the controversy surrounding the event and grassroots origins of Freaknik. It delves into the complexities of Freaknik's evolution, addressing the criticisms and controversies that arose as the event gained popularity. From concerns about public safety and traffic congestion to debates over the handling of sexual assault and misconduct allegations, Freaknik became a lightning rod for societal discourse. However, amidst the uproar, it remained a symbol of resilience and cultural pride for many, underscoring the complexities of navigating identity, community, and expression in a rapidly changing world.
“To me, the most important moment of it all is when you see these young folks come together to create an event for their peers. You don't see that too often these days where a group of African American men and women come together and create something and it went on for a period of time. People don't know about that period of time. The only thing they know about is when Uncle Luke came there, turned the place out, and seeing people on cars all across the highway dancing and partying,” he explained.
“That's what most people in the later years look at and think about with Freaknik. So when people see this story they'll see the rich history and how the Atlanta music scene came about that made JD so great and the artists that he touched like Lil Jon. All the artists that came to Atlanta for Freaknik and did not leave. You don't get that same vibe, feeling, energy, and positivity that you get in Atlanta.”
As we reflect on the vibrant history of Freaknik's legacy, it becomes evident that its impact transcends the boundaries of time and space. What began as a spontaneous gathering in the ‘80s blossomed into a cultural juggernaut, etching itself into the annals of history as a defining moment of the ‘90s. Its influence didn't just fade with the dawn of a new millennium; instead, it solidified its place as a timeless emblem of the Black college spring break experience.
Beyond its immediate cultural impact, Freaknik seeped into the fabric of popular media, becoming a recurring motif in Black movies and TV shows. From iconic films like House Party to beloved sitcoms like Martin, Freaknik became more than just an event – it became a staple Black cultural experience for many. One of my personal favorites remains the episode of Sister, Sister, where Tia and Tamera venture from Detroit to Atlanta for the first time for Freaknik.
As we navigate the ever-changing currents of culture and society, Freaknik stands as a beacon of resilience and celebration, a testament to the power of unity and collective joy. Its echoes continue to resonate through the corridors of time, reminding us of the indelible mark left by those fleeting moments of chaos and bliss on the streets of Atlanta. In the end, Freaknik isn't just a memory – it's a living testament to the spirit of community, creativity, and unyielding passion that defines us all.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Feature image by Paras Griffin/Getty Images