Professional Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts at Your Internship

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Professional Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts at Your Internship

An internship is your audition in the professional world, and etiquette can make or break your impression. I’ve found most colleges, including my own, really don’t prepare you for the expectations of the 9-5 work life. So, here’s a thorough guide on navigating workplace etiquette effectively.

Do’s:

  • Arrive Punctually: Always respect people’s time. Being early demonstrates reliability and dedication.

  • Dress Professionally: Observe the company’s dress code and slightly exceed expectations, especially during important meetings or presentations.

  • Communicate Clearly and Respectfully: Write concise emails, speak politely, and listen actively. Professional communication is foundational to workplace success.

  • Show Initiative and Curiosity: Volunteer for tasks, ask thoughtful questions, and show genuine enthusiasm for learning new skills.

  • Respect Office Culture: Quickly adapt to unwritten office norms like lunch breaks, noise levels, and team interactions.

  • Inbox ZERO: This one is my biggest pet peeve. If I have a team member who isn’t keeping their email clean, they can miss out on important time-critical information. I’m not saying to check your email every 5 minutes, but periodically throughout the day, and use folders to organize VIP senders.

Don’ts:

  • Don’t Gossip: Stay clear of office politics and negative conversations. Remain professional and positive.

  • Avoid Procrastination: Manage your time effectively and deliver assignments promptly.

  • Don’t Overstep Boundaries: Maintain professional relationships and avoid becoming overly casual or invasive with colleagues or superiors.

  • Avoid Personal Social Media at Work: Unless required professionally, keep your focus solely on work-related tasks during office hours.

  • Never Assume: When uncertain, seek clarification proactively rather than risking errors.

Mastering professional etiquette isn't simply about fitting in—it’s about setting yourself apart as someone who belongs in the professional space permanently.

In this episode of Career Hack, Brandon Amoroso chats with Charlotte Lidster, Senior Talent Partner at Chapter 2, about the evolving landscape of recruitment. From leveraging AI to navigating networking in the digital age, Charlotte shares invaluable insights for job seekers and employers alike. Whether you're an early-career professional or a seasoned candidate, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you thrive in today's competitive job market.

Key topics:

🚀 The impact of AI on recruitment and how to use it effectively in your job search.

🧠 Building a strong personal brand and networking on LinkedIn.

The importance of tailoring job applications for success.

🔑 Choosing between startups and corporate environments in your early career.

🌍 International recruitment trends and what to expect in 2025.

Follow SCALIS on social to stay updated with early career opportunities and exciting new trends!