1. Social Skills for Successful Professionals
UT-TSU Extension New Employee Orientation
Janet C. Cluck
Extension Director
Dickson County
March 13, 2019

2. People matter!
Remember the ‘Golden Rule’ and treat others the way you want to be treated!
Always be:
Considerate
Courteous
Gracious
Respectful
Honest

3. You only get one chance to make a GREAT first impression!
Nametag
Eye contact
Handshake

4. It all boils down to speaking to the person you wish to honor first!
Making Introductions
It all boils down to speaking to the person you wish to honor first!

5. Social Situations …and this person SECOND Speak to this person FIRST…
Your grandparents, parents, or anyone older than you
Your contemporary (or younger)
Your friend
Another family member
An adult
A child
A woman
A man
Someone w/a title: Senator, Mayor, Judge, Doctor; anyone senior in rank to you (boss, CEO)
Your guest of honor
Others attending the event
…and this person SECOND

6. Speak to this person FIRST… …and this person SECOND
Business Situations
Speak to this person FIRST…
…and this person SECOND
A client
Anyone in your company, including your CEO
Your boss, or a higher-up
A person of lower rank in the company
…and this person SECOND

7. Carrying on a Conversation
(AKA “Working the Room”)
Avoid sensitive topics
Avoid confidential work-related info
Keep it simple until you find common ground
Make yourself ‘conversationally available’ to the other person

8. What is the ‘Dress Code’?
A professional image is expected at all times
‘Business Casual’ recommended for general office attire
Dress appropriately for Client Visits and Meetings
Personal Appearance (good hygiene and grooming)

9. U know what I mean? U need 2 Bcareful. Not a good habit 2 4m.
Cell Phones
U know what I mean? U need 2 Bcareful. Not a good habit 2 4m.

10. PLEASE DON’T SHOUT AT ME!
Etiquette 101
PLEASE DON’T SHOUT AT ME!

11. Casual Table Setting

13. Reception Etiquette Less structured than banquets or presentations
Still requires a professional image
Mingling
Conversation
Food and Beverage
Special Consideration for Alcoholic Beverages

14. “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success
“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”
Herman Cain
Former Chair, Godfather’s Pizza