Personal and Professional Etiquette


Jacksonville UniversityWhat is Etiquette?
Etiquette: the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group. (Oxford Languages)
or in plainer English:
Etiquette is all about showing kindness and understanding the "rules of the game" in different situations. Whether you’re hanging out with friends, in a professional setting, or meeting someone new, it’s about being considerate and respectful while knowing how to act appropriately.
EtiquetteWhy should I care?
At Jacksonville University, we’re all about helping you crush your career goals. And guess what? Professional etiquette plays a huge role in making that happen. Knowing how to navigate different social and professional settings with ease sets you apart from the crowd, opens doors, and helps you build connections that last.
Taking the time to learn these skills now will give you a serious advantage after graduation. Together, let’s make sure you walk into every situation with the confidence and professionalism that Jacksonville University is known for.

Why Professional Etiquette is a Game-Changer for Your Career
First impressions
are everything
Making a great first impression can create opportunities you might not expect at a job interview, networking event, or even in a casual social setting. Knowing how to present yourself with confidence and respect instantly makes you stand out.
Boost your
confidence
Knowing how to handle yourself in any situation—in a big job interview or a casual networking event—gives you the confidence you need to shine. Good manners aren’t just about being polite; they help you feel more comfortable, making tough situations easier to navigate. That extra confidence can be the key to landing your dream job or making important connections.
Create a
positive vibe
Etiquette isn’t just about you—it’s about making others feel comfortable too. When you know how to act in professional settings, you help create a welcoming environment where people feel at ease. And that’s a skill that every employer values. Whether you’re working in a team or meeting new people, knowing how to foster positive interactions is essential for success.
Time to
level up
Let’s be honest, your generation gets a bad rap among older generations for not knowing how to act. There are high expectations for how true professionals act. A good grasp of how to meet and exceed what’s expected of young professionals will set you apart from your peers, leading to a speedy upward trajectory.
Heads Up: This site is just the beginning—it’s your starter pack for leveling up your social and professional skills. While we focus on social situations here, the tips you'll learn also work in interview and workplace settings. Keep in mind that some industries have their own specific etiquette, so you'll need to do a bit more research when diving into those fields. But don’t worry, this will give you a solid foundation to build on!
Getting comfortable with professional and social etiquette is a key step to thriving in life after college. No matter the setting you are in, these skills help you make a positive impression. Here's a quick guide to help you navigate with confidence!
Check Out Our Easy-to-Use Guide
We’ve broken everything down into quick, simple sections to make sure you get the most out of it:
- Need-to-Know Basics: Fast, essential tips that will get you up to speed in no time.
- Nice-to-Know Extras: Extra info to give you an edge and stand out from the crowd.
- Dig Deeper: For those looking to take their skills to the next level.
- Pro Tips: Occasionally, we’ll drop some advanced tips when it makes sense.
Everyday Etiquette: Social Situations Simplified

“Whenever two people come together and their behavior affects one another, you have etiquette.”
Jacksonville UniversityEtiquette
This website has been created as a reference for Jacksonville University students preparing to enter the professional world as a well-rounded global citizen. We hope it will be found useful in answering some common etiquette questions.
Contact Information Career Design & Exploration
Moran Center
Jacksonville University
2800 University Blvd N
Jacksonville, FL 32211
Phone: (904) 256-7317
Email: careers@ju.edu