5 things you won't learn in college

No matter how many classes you take and the amount of organizations you join, there are just some things you will never learn in college that will prepare you for the professional world.

Thanks to my parents and personal experience, I have found out the 5 things you must know before going into the real world.

Etiquette

If you don't have manners, then good luck to you. How you present yourself at dinner could make or break you getting a job.
't hav
No elbows on the table. Napkin on your lap. Chew with your mouth closed.

There are so many simple manners you should master before becoming a professional (or beforehand if you want someone to take you on a real date).

Don't know where to find out what manners you need? Pinterest!

Dressing Yourself

If you wear it to the bars, don't where it to work. You want people to take you seriously, so don't wear your shortest dress or no tie.

Simple make up and hair. Always have your nails painted.

Need a role model for how to dress professionally? Watch Scandal! Olivia Pope and her "gladiators" would never allow themselves to dress unprofessionally.

Shaking hands

Have a firm hand shake and look them in the eye! Plain and simple.

For ladies, some old-fashioned men still don't think women should shake hands. So you should always stick your hand out first. It shows your assertiveness and avoids any awkward situations. 

Business Cards

Even if you are still a student or don't have a job, it is not a bad idea to have business cards. You never know who you will meet, so having all your contact information in one place will help them out.

Don't be giving these out in bars, that's just weird. Just have a couple in your purse when you go to networking events or events with your parents.

What they should include: Name, major, email, LinkedIn, and possibly your personal website or Twitter handle. 

Be kind

Getting a job or being a professional is just like making friends. You wouldn't want to be friends with someone who is a b****,  just like you wouldn't want to work with one.

Being nice goes a long way, maybe even farther then your 4.0 and 5 page resume. So always smile and ask questions because people love to talk about themselves. 

Want to go that extra mile? After an interview, send a hand written thank you. Might be old-fashioned but you will be remembered.