The BBC of the workplace

It is now September and the reality is finally hitting third-year university students who won't be going back into the lecture rooms but into the office. And many of these young professionals will be venturing into the work world without knowing the basic business conduct (BBC) of corporate Jamaica. Flair sought the expertise of Beverley Corke, manager/trainer of the Beverly Corke Personal and Professional Development Centre, expert in grooming and etiquette, to share a few tips on what first-timers should know before going into the working world.

1. Be on time. If you are to start work at 8:30 a.m. and you arrive at 8:30 a.m. you are late.

2. Practise a good handshake. Not crushing, but firm, warm, dry, and do make eye contact.

3. Be more interested than interesting.

4. Do not chew gum in public.

5. Do not give unsolicited advice.

6. Stand straight and erect.

7. Walk with a confident well paced gait.

8. Do not drag your feet.

9. Do not gossip.

10. Mind your own business.

11. Always be kind and helpful.

12. Use proper titles.

13. Be friendly but never familiar.

14. Learn and observe the order of deference.

15. Do not refer to others as he or she, use the person's name.

16. Never argue with, or chide customers.

17. Unless a cellphone is given to you by the company to conduct their business you should not be receiving calls or sending messages or have a phone in hand or on your desk.

18. Ensure that your ring tone and voice mail are appropriate for business use.

19. Be pleasant, and polite to everyone.

20. Keep your private life out of the office.

Remember that first impressions tend to be lasting and you have only one opportunity, which is within the first 30 minutes of meeting. Make the most of it.

- Garfene Grandison

#10. Mind your own business.

Corke