How Professional Are You? Remember To Practice Both Email And Phone Etiquette

Here are some tips:
                                                                                                                                        

• Don't use an unprofessional email address like foxylady@yahoo.com. Instead, use an email such as FirstNameLastName@gmail.com. You can obtain an email account from Gmail.com for free.
• It is never a bad idea to create an email address just for your job search. This step will help if your email account has a storage limit.
• Be sure your PC has antivirus software installed and working. You don't want to send an infected document to an employer.
• Make sure the message on your voicemail articulates professionalism. Consider changing the message on your voicemail when you are not able to return calls quickly to show callers how professional you are, meaning no music, humor or cute greeting from the kids.
• If you have call waiting, disregard the beep while you are on the phone with a contact or prospective employer. Give the employer your full attention.
• Return calls in a quiet room and if at all possible try to use a landline. Sometimes cell phones don’t have the best reception.
• The phone interview should be treated like an in-person interview including dressing up for the phone interview.
• Make sure there are no distractions. Hiring managers can tell when your attention is somewhere else and not focus on them.  
• When you get a voicemail from an employer, call them back as soon as possible: If you have a hectic and crazy schedule try to schedule a callback time. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness.
• Avoid writing in all capital or all lower-case letters in emails to employers. This example is a poor writing style, and the employer will think poorly of your grammar and writing ability.
• Do attempt to foster a warm and personal and professional connection with the person in your messages.

 
Remember first impressions are everything. Landing a job interview usually starts with an email or phone communication. It is imperative to present yourself professionally, so you will need to put your best foot forward.

More Resources​

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