Randi Mays-Knapp ’79 joined us in class to remind students that technical skills are not all that goes into building a business. Your professional connections, personal image, and the way others perceive you can get you to the next level and boost your career.  

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Prof-for-a-Day Presentation
Spring 2024 Etiquette Dinner

Known to the students as “Coach Knapp,” our next Prof-for-a-Day has presented annually since 2018 for good reason. She serves as a reminder to continually work on soft skills and have the same respect for yourself you expect from others. Her catalogue of simple tips and personal advice are a guide to think about yourself and others in a way that will stand out amongst professional competition.

A Catalogue of Tips

One of the key themes in Coach Knapp’s presentation is taking responsibility for your image. She relates that “you choose your attitude. It’s not something anyone chooses for you, so choose to make it positive.” How do you make this happen? Here is a small list of tips she shares with the class:

First Impressions
  • “First impressions are made within seven seconds, sometimes even quicker, and they are hard to change.”
  • “When you meet someone, stand up, use a confident voice, and make eye contact. Small actions like these show respect and professionalism”
  • “Networking is invaluable, but real relationships are even more critical. Look someone squarely in the eye when shaking their hand.”
Communication Skills
  • “Be coachable—it’s a critical skill in both personal and professional life.”
  • “Choose your words carefully: say ‘you’re welcome’ instead of ‘no problem,’ and avoid filler words like ‘like.’”
  • “Email subject lines should reflect what needs to happen—'response needed’ or ‘action due’ are clear and effective.”
Personal Responsibility
  • “Take responsibility for your actions and don’t blame others. Whining is not winning.”
  • “Writing thank-you notes is sometimes the difference between getting a job and not getting a job, especially if it’s from the heart.”
  • “How you present yourself, even in small ways like a handshake or eye contact, communicates your value to others.”
Manners
  • “Etiquette is good business. It helps you build trust and positive perceptions as you interact with people.”
  • “You are always communicating before you say a word—through your body language, facial expression, and how you show up.”
  • “It’s important to dress for the event you’re attending. Behind attention to our grooming are the goals of appearing at our best on the stage of everyday life.”

Etiquette as Empowerment

People will judge you, while that can be scary it is also an opportunity to leave a mark. Rather than discard their judgement as a hindrance, utilizing their attention to leave a lasting impression will help your career. Deeper than that, respecting yourself and choosing to have a positive self-image will do wonders for your confidence. In a world moving away from personal interactions as more of us work from home and minimize “dealing” with people – making these changes can set you above the competition personally and professionally.