Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority

Leading Etiquette Expert and Modern Manners Authority Diane Gottsman’s official blog, with Business Etiquette, University Etiquette, Social Media Etiquette, Dining Etiquette and more.

Commonly Asked University Etiquette Questions

14 Mar 2022 By: Diane Gottsman

One of the most rewarding parts of the work that I do is leading university etiquette sessions for bright and talented students around the US. I look forward to these sessions year after year and especially love being able to keep in touch with attendees long after they’ve graduated. It may sound cliché, but students keep me on my toes and teach me new tips and tricks; I am grateful to be able to share what I can around standing out—in a good way—from their competition. In today’s post, I’ve gathered some of the most commonly asked university etiquette questions I have heard lately. The past few years have impacted the way we conduct business in some ways. Keep reading for a manners refresh for those preparing to enter the business arena.

university etiquette questions | A portrait of an Asian college student on campus

Commonly Asked University Etiquette Questions

Q: How should I prepare for a job interview over Zoom?

A: Preparing for a job interview over Zoom takes the same time and dedication you would exert if you were meeting someone in person. Be prepared with all your information in front of you, arrive to the meeting on time, fully dressed from head to toe.

Q: Should I extend my hand for a handshake during an interview?

A: There was a time not long ago when people were saying that handshakes would never come back post-pandemic. That is simply not the case. Thanks to the vaccine, business is basically back to normal and a handshake is an appropriate greeting when both parties are comfortable. Watch the other person’s body language for their comfort level.

Q: I’m in the process of updating my resume. What are a few quick tips to add some polish?

A: I recommend reaching out to your university’s Career Service Center for their expertise. They will often review your resume and provide helpful feedback. It may also be worth working with a reputable resume writer. They will be able to help you with formatting that will ensure your resume is friendly with applicant tracking systems (ATS). A few other updates are leaving your mailing address off of your resume (city and state is fine), considering skipping the objective statement and including relevant social media links (this article on Monster.com may be helpful).

Q: What should I do to prepare for an interview over lunch?

A: You are asked to meet over a meal so your potential employer can evaluate how you will behave in front of their best client. Everything from the way you order to how you excuse yourself from the table makes a difference. Knowing basic dining rules will assist you in looking competent and appearing your best. Keep the following in mind:

  • Liquids are on the right, and the bread plate is on the left.
  • When leaving the table temporarily, place your napkin on the seat of the chair. At the end of the meal, you can place the napkin back on the table.
  • Order a moderate meal, nothing too expensive, and one that is easy to use your utensils without a struggle.
  • Avoid finger foods which are messy or will leave your hands smelling like shrimp or onions.
  • Be prepared to pay for your portion of the meal, although the recruiter will most likely cover the entire bill.
  • Avoid ordering liquor at a job interview.

Q: Should I send a thank you note after a job interview or is the gesture outdated?

A: Always send an email directly after the interview (within a few hours) and a handwritten note 24 to 48 hours after the interview, in the mail. These are two strong follow-up measures that will ensure you are noticed and kept top of mind with your potential employer.

Q: Are career fairs a waste of time?

A: On the contrary, career fairs present valuable networking experiences where a student can meet multiple employers and present themselves to a variety of individuals. These connections may lead you to your next career goal.

Q: Should I invest in business cards?

A: A resume is your best business card. However, if you have the budget or ability to create your own, a tasteful business card with all of your information is another way to leave a positive impression.

Be sure to check out The Protocol School of Texas. Read Diane’s posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. 

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Diane Gottsman

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and modern manners professional, sought out industry leader, television personality, accomplished speaker, Huffington Post blogger, author, and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in executive leadership and etiquette training. Diane is routinely quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, The BBC, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, Kiplinger, Huffington Post Canada, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. She is the resident etiquette expert for two popular morning talk shows, SA Living and Good Day Austin. She has been seen on The TODAY Show, HLN Headline News, WGN Chicago, and CBS Sunday Morning. Her clients range from university students to Fortune 500 companies and her workshops cover topics ranging from tattoos in the workplace to technology at the dinner table and the proper use of social media.