Life Etiquettes for 20 Somethings

If there’s anything the social media has taught me, It is that most people especially millenials don’t know how to conduct themselves in public. You should understand that bad behaviour is only accepted when you are in your teens but as you grow out of your teen years and hit 20 somethings, you are expected to take responsibility for all your actions.

It is almost imperative that you must begin to learn how to be confident, exude grace and self esteem.  I’ll like to share some life tips that will definitely help you boost your confidence level, improve your self esteem and relationships, and could possibly lead to more leadership positions.

   

        1. WATCH WHAT YOU POST…OR THEY’LL HAUNT YOU

When you have a picture like what I have up there as your instagram picture, how in the world will you be taken seriously???
Posting inappropriate photos of yourself, and using bad language, can affect you socially and professionally. There is a high percentage of employers looking at social media pages. A potential employer or even your current boss may see your social media page, and see something that could be offensive, and they wouldn’t want you to represent their company. In fact, 96% of businesses are participating in social media marketing. That’s why it’s important to be careful about what you post. Don’t go on social media to complain and criticize your job, your boss etc. You need to keep it yourself and maintain professionalism.

   2. THERE IS A TIME AND PLACE TO USE YOUR CELL PHONE.​

Cell phone technology brings out the worst and the best in people. There are many cell phone faux pas committed daily, and there are people talking loudly on their phones in public places all the time such as banks, business meetings, and doctors offices, to name a few. The only exception [to using a cell phone] during a business meeting is if someone is in the hospital, or your wife is pregnant and going into labour soon. Prior to the meeting, just let the person in charge of the meeting know that you may have to excuse yourself to answer the phone. Another cell phone violation is text messaging to the point that you are not aware of the people around you.

     3. DON’T SHOW UP AT A PARTY EMPTY-HANDED

I know its not a Nigerian thing to do but I personally think it’s rude to show up at a party empty-handed. Even if the person says you don’t have to bring anything, it’s still polite to bring something. It could be desert, flower, chocolate, or wine. Also, don’t take the unopened wine you brought to the dinner party.

    

      4. YOU DON’T HAVE VIDEO RECORD AND PHOTOGRAPH EVERYTHING

Unless you’re the official photographer for an event, please remember that you don’t need to record everything that happens. Plix grab a seat and enjoy the party!!!

This happens a lot especially at weddings. The bride and groom have spent thousands of dollars planning for their special day. Your self-appointment as the photographer shows a lack of respect.

  5. DON’T BREAK UP SOMEONE SOCIAL MEDIA.

Have you heard? You don’t need to break up with your partner on social media. It is a big no no to break up with someone over social media. Have enough respect to talk to the person face to face, not even over the phone. That way you get a sense of the person’s emotions.

Also putting your dirty laundry online for everyone to see can cause animosity. With people adding in their two kobo, it gets bigger, like a snowball effect. So KEEP YOUR S**T TO YOURSELF!!!

  ​6. RESPOND TO AN RSVP INVITE​­.

It’s important that you respond promptly. If something comes up at the last minute, such as not being able to attend the birthday party, you should apologise, and send them a gift. Especially if you end up cancelling after the celebrant have included you in their cost.

  7. NO VAGUE SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS.

​That could open the door to people sending you private messages that I’m sure you don’t want. It’s best to address the person directly, rather than second guessing, because miscommunication could be the culprit.”

     

    8. DON’T START SOCIAL MEDIA FIGHTS. ​

People need to learn to express themselves without insulting people. Keep in mind that everyone’s opinion is important, and you should not take it personal. Respect other people’s opinion and agree to disagree.

      

     9. PREPARE FOR NETWORKING EVENTS AS YOU WOULD A JOB INTERVIEW. ​

“At least have an idea of who will be (at a networking event) beforehand so you can be prepared. Have an idea of who you want to work with and the reason why. Building relationships is the name of the game in networking, and could earn you millions of dollars. It is about listening and learning about the other person, and not you dominating the conversation. Connect with three people, and follow up with them.

       10. DRESS FOR SUCCESS.​

Make sure that when you go to a networking event, dress professionally. A first impression is a lasting impression. It takes less than seven seconds for someone to figure out if they want to do business with you. Millenials are relaxed and trendy, but the trending and casual look is not appropriate for all settings. Ladies should avoid wearing stilettos at a business meeting. Your walk should exude grace, and confidence.

 “A first impression is a lasting impression. People judge you before you open your mouth.

How you choose to dress tells employers a lot about you, whether you are serious about getting the job, if you would be a good representation for the company, or if they think it’s worth investing in you. 95% of employers said a jobseeker’s personal appearance affected their opinion of the applicant’s suitability for the job. Dressing professionally will give you a boost of self-confidence, and a competitive edge. So make it count if you have to make an impression.

     11. EAT BEFORE JOB INTERVIEWS OR NETWORKING EVENTS.​

A lot of times at a networking event, food is provided. Don’t go there thinking you’re going to have a full course meal and don’t stand by the food table. Networking is for connecting, If you’re hungry, eat something light before you arrive to avoid over eating.

      12. SEND A THANK YOU CARD.

If you’ve connected with someone you wanted to connect with at a networking event, or someone connected you with [the head of a company], show your gratitude for the connection by making a call, sending a handwritten thank you or email. These gestures can create long lasting relationships.

    13. WATCH HOW YOU CONDUCT YOURSELF AT OFFICE PARTIES.​

Don’t drink too much, even though you’re not on the clock, you’re still being watched, and you could end up drinking yourself out of a job. Dress for the occasion – not to sexy, not to casual. Make sure you mingle at the party, participate in activities, and be prepared for small talk.

Avoid subjects that center around politics and religion. Those discussions can get pretty heated. People feel very strong about those subjects, and you don’t want to cause a fight.  Concentrate on small talk like music, movies, sports etc. Mind you, this doesn’t mean you are not intelligent, it only means you are an easy chat.

14. DITCH WRITING IN SHORT FORMS...OR YOU'LL BE DITCHED

LWKMD: Laugh Will Kill Me ???
I wonder why an employee would send a mail written in short form or abbreviations to his employer??? Short forms come with the new social media reign, however try as much as possible not to make this extremely informal form of writing a part of your vocabulary. Don't send LWKMD or LMFAO or LOL or IMO etc or you'll will be laughed at.

This is the size of all I can share with you. I hope it helps. Remember, nothing should control you.

Live, Love and Learn























Photo Source: google.com