With two solid interviews under the belt, a job candidate receives a lunch or dinner invitation from his or her prospective boss. Says Mary Lynn Brannon, instructional design specialist at Penn State Worthington Scranton, "the employer wants to see how this candidate behaves. It's an assessment of social grace and etiquette," she says. "The good news is, if the candidate passes muster they're probably in. Conversely, if they spill the mustard they will likely have blown it."
Sponsored by Prudential Financial, Penn State Worthington Scranton will hold a Professional Protocol & Business Etiquette Program on Friday, April 7th . Ms. Brannon notes that Penn State Worthington Scranton is serious about giving their students a competitive edge. They invited Jane G. Goodrich, MBA, an instructor of Management and Marketing, Black School of Business at Penn State Erie, and The Behrend College to present a three and half hour course.
Ms. Goodrich is director of The Business Bridge, an educational initiative for second year business students. She has presented sessions for several hundred students in communication and self-presentation skills, and presents by invitation at conferences sponsored by The Association to Advance Collegiate School of Business.
Ms. Goodrich has completed extensive research on etiquette and protocol. She has authored "Proposal for an Advanced Level College Course in Executive Etiquette and Professional Protocol." The paper continues to draw the attention of both regional and national business leaders. Ms. Goodrich established a consulting firm, Executive Education Services, specializing in enhancing the communications, self-presentation, and managerial skills of business professionals.
Mary Lynn Brannon summed up the rational behind the Penn State Worthington Scranton effort. "In today's competitive job market, exemplary dress, behavior, and observation of proper protocol convey credibility and competence," she said. "We want Penn State graduates to continue to stand out and this is a great hands-on way to offer instruction."
The Professional Protocol & Business Etiquette Program will also include sessions on self-presentation and interviewing skills. The Dining Etiquette Luncheon Workshop takes place from 11:30 a.m. until 1:20 p.m. in the Gallagher Conference Center.