Manners Matter

Geneva College students are well aware of many of the elements required to achieve success in the workplace—hard work, ethical behavior based on biblical principles, a respected degree and real-world training. And Geneva′s well-rounded curriculum is designed to foster these skills and provide these experiences.

But important elements of career and job-search success that are often neglected in many educational experiences are good etiquette and proper manners. An increasing number of business deals are conducted outside of the office, and many hiring decisions are made at the lunch or dinner table. So to answer the need for these important skills, the Geneva College Career Development Center offers an annual Networking and Etiquette Dinner.

“Unfortunately, this concept is not always reinforced. Meals are often wolfed down in the mad rush to the next commitment,” explains Career Development′s Coordinator Beth Ann Mine. “We want to equip our students and give them confidence in the business dinner arena.”

The Networking and Etiquette Dinner is a highly interactive and hands-on session where participants have the opportunity to learn by doing. Students learn how to deliver an elevator pitch, the reason networking is so vital, how to mingle during formal events, navigating table settings, and other important skills and etiquette.

Laura Bly ′12, Events Planning Coordinator at Geneva, remembers attending the Networking and Etiquette Dinner when she was at Geneva. "I loved the event but, more importantly, I learned a lot that helped me after I graduated. It helped me to know how to present myself in a business situation. I remember how glad I was the first time I attended a networking event and was prepared. And when I went to lunch meetings and dinner meetings, I was comfortable and knew what to do. The preparation that Geneva provided was truly valuable."

This year, the Networking and Etiquette Dinner will be held on Wednesday, October 29 at 5 p.m. in the President′s Dining Room. The cost for the event is $5, which includes instruction, discussion and a buffet meal. Registration may be made online.