First Impressions
This is something you should make sure is turned off or put away when speaking with an employer.
Cell Phone
Your coworker is gossiping about another employee. The most professional response is to do this.
Stay out of the gossip and redirect the conversation
Your supervisor texts, "Can you come in early tomorrow?" You should respond with this type of communication.
A clear and professional response, ASAP
When you don't understand an assignment, the professional thing to do is this.
Ask for clarification
Your alarm didn't go off. Your dog ate your homework. Your car disappeared. What's the professional move?
Communicate with your employer as soon as possible and take responsibility rather than making excuses.
Showing up 10–15 minutes early demonstrates this professional quality.
Punctuality
Your coworker isn't pulling their weight and it's affecting your work. You should first do this.
Communicate with the coworker or supervisor in a professional manner, explaining your concerns
This is generally NOT appropriate to use when emailing an employer.
Emojis, slang, or texting abbreviations
This quality means taking responsibility for your actions and mistakes.
Accountability
You're at work and your phone buzzes. It's your friend sending you 15 memes. What do you do?
Wait until an appropriate break to check your phone.
This type of greeting is generally appropriate when meeting an employer for the first time.
Professional Handshake
A customer starts yelling at you. Your first priority should be to remain this.
Calm and professional, no matter what
If you're going to be late for work, you should notify your employer this way.
ASAP, using your company's preferred communication method - ask for clarification on this when you start working
Your work is finished, but you notice your coworker struggling. A professional teammate might do this.
Offer the appropriate assistance
Your coworker says, "The boss isn't here—let's take a two-hour lunch." What do you do?
Follow the workplace rules and your scheduled break.
When meeting someone professionally, these two things can help show confidence and engagement.
Good eye contact and posture
Your supervisor gives you criticism about your work. Instead of becoming defensive, you should do this.
Listen, ask questions professionally, and use the feedback to improve
True or False: You should complain about your employer on social media because your personal account has nothing to do with your career.
False
You make a mistake on the job. Which is more professional: hide it or report it?
Report it and help correct it
You see your dream employer at the grocery store on Saturday. What could you say?
Introduce yourself professionally and briefly—without turning their grocery trip into a job interview. 😂
You have 30 seconds to introduce yourself to an employer. What should you include?
Who you are, your skills, and the opportunity you're seeking
You disagree with your supervisor's instructions but believe you have a legitimate concern. What is the professional approach?
Respectfully explain your concern and ask for clarification
A coworker asks you to send them confidential information about a customer/client/patient. They say, “Just text it to me—it’s faster.” What should you do?
Do not send it by text simply because it is faster. Follow the company’s approved method for handling confidential information and verify that the person is authorized to receive it
You are asked to perform a task you haven't been trained or authorized to perform. What should you do?
Communicate that you aren't trained/authorized and ask your supervisor for guidance
Your first day on the job is tomorrow. What's one thing you can do tonight that costs $0 but could make a great impression?
Prepare your clothes, get gas, plan your route, set an alarm, arrive 10-15 minutes early