Non-Technical Skills for IT

Professionals
ITPFA1-11

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Week 3: Lessons 5 - 6
Introduction

Throughout this week, you will learn about etiquette principles and attire standards
suitable for IT professionals in practical, real-world scenarios.

By the end of both lessons 5 and 6 you should be able to:

1. Role-play an IT meeting where students apply proper etiquette.
2. Analyse the impact of etiquette violations in IT and propose corrective actions.
3. Create an IT etiquette guide for new hires.
4. Critique the attire of IT professionals in various settings and justify their
appropriateness.
5. Design a dress code policy for an IT company, considering cultural and
professional norms.
6. Present a fashion show of IT-appropriate attire and explain the choices.
 What will be covered in
today’s lesson?

Etiquette

Week 2 Workplace Etiquette

Lesson 3
Business Dining Etiquette

Funeral Etiquette
Etiquette (Merriam-Webster)

Definition:

personal conduct or behavior as evaluated by an accepted

standard of appropriateness for a social or professional
setting

the couple exhibited poor etiquette when they left the

party without saying good-bye to the host and hostess
Press Play
 Workplace Etiquette
Mutual respect, consideration for others' space, and professionalism
in the workplace is important. Key points include:

1.Workspace Etiquette: Keep your workspace clean. Use discretion

when decorating. Be mindful of noise levels and use headphones for
music. Respect others' space and privacy.
2.Communication: Be polite when speaking to colleagues, knock
before entering their workspace, and keep noise levels down.
3.Conflict Resolution: If someone's behaviour is disruptive, address
it politely and directly with them first.
4.Eating and Drinking: Minimize eating and drinking in the
workspace to prevent unpleasant odours. Dispose of litter properly.
5.Office Etiquette: Close the door during meetings or private
conversations. Knock before entering others' offices and respect
their busy schedules.
6.Cubicle Etiquette: Avoid leaning over partitions or eavesdropping
on neighbouring conversations.
7.Cell Phone Usage: Follow company guidelines for cell phone use.
Silence your phone during meetings and notify others if you're
expecting an important call.
Business Dining
Guidelines for etiquette during business lunch or dinner meetings. Key points
include:
1. Etiquette Similarities: Many etiquette rules applicable in the workplace also
apply during dinner meetings. This includes switching off phones, dressing
appropriately, and arriving on time.
2. Arrival and Introduction: Arrive punctually. Upon being seated, introduce
yourself to others present.
3. Dining Etiquette: The most senior person typically sets the tone. They should
be the first to be seated and to order, although they may defer to the guest out of
politeness. Use proper dining etiquette, including placing the napkin on your lap,
showing decisiveness when ordering, avoiding messy foods, and being
conservative with drink choices.
4. Conversation and Behavior: Engage in conversation but avoid speaking with
your mouth full. Maintain good posture and keep elbows off the table. If utensils
are provided, work from the outside inwards.
5. Listening and Engagement: Actively listen to others during the conversation
and engage with their points. Show interest in what others are saying by asking
questions and offering relevant input. Avoid dominating the conversation and
ensure everyone has a chance to contribute.
6. Thanking and Departure: At the end of the meal, express gratitude to the host
for the invitation and to the company for the pleasant time. Offer to split the bill if
appropriate, or express willingness to cover your portion if the host insists. Depart
gracefully, thanking everyone for their time and hospitality.
Funerals
Guidance on attending funerals of colleagues, emphasizing respect, cultural
considerations, and appropriate behaviour. Key points include:

1.Deciding Attendance: The nature of your relationship with the deceased

will determine your level of involvement, whether attending the funeral,
sending flowers, or offering personal condolences.
2.Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of cultural and traditional practices
surrounding funerals. Research or seek guidance from colleagues if unsure
about appropriate actions.
3.Visitation Etiquette: Dress appropriately, sign the register, and wait in line
to offer condolences to the family, even if you don't know them personally.
Demonstrate sympathy and respect.
4.Funeral Behaviour: Arrive early, speak softly, and maintain a respectful
demeanour throughout the service.
5.Graveside Ceremony: Follow instructions for the procession and adhere to
any specific protocols, seeking guidance from the funeral director if
necessary.
Case Study
John, a longtime employee at a reputable law firm, unexpectedly passed away due to a
sudden illness. His colleagues at the firm are grieving his loss and are considering
attending his funeral to pay their respects.

Etiquette Considerations:
1. Decision Making: How should colleagues decide whether to attend the funeral, send
flowers, or offer condolences in another way based on their relationship with John?
2. Cultural Sensitivity: Considering John's diverse background, how can colleagues ensure
they are mindful of any cultural or religious customs related to his funeral?
3. Visitation Protocol: What is the appropriate attire for colleagues attending the
visitation? How should they approach and express condolences to John's family
members, particularly if they're not acquainted?
4. Funeral Behaviour: How should colleagues conduct themselves during the funeral
service to show respect and support for John's family?
5. Graveside Ceremony: If colleagues decide to attend the graveside ceremony, how
should they participate respectfully? What steps can they take to ensure they're
following any specific protocols?
Discussion Questions
1. How do you determine your level of involvement in attending a colleague's
funeral, especially if your relationship with them was professional rather than
personal?
2. What steps can be taken to accommodate diverse cultural or religious practices
when honouring a colleague's passing?
3. How important is it to adhere to traditional funeral etiquette, such as signing the
register and waiting in line to offer condolences? How might this vary based on
cultural backgrounds?
4. What behaviours demonstrate respect and support for the deceased and their
family during a funeral service?
5. How can colleagues ensure they are sensitive to the emotional needs of John's
family and other mourners during this difficult time?
6. In what ways can attending a colleague's funeral contribute to team cohesion and
workplace culture?
7. How can the firm support employees who are grieving the loss of a colleague,
both during and after the funeral proceedings?
Observation
Navigating funeral etiquette in the workplace requires sensitivity, respect, and
consideration for cultural differences and preferences. By discussing and addressing
these considerations, colleagues can honour their departed coworker in a manner
that is meaningful and supportive for all involved.
 What will be covered in
today’s lesson?

Professionalism, ethics and self-

management skills in the workplace
environment

Week 3
Lesson 6 Compare and contrast various self-
management techniques and
recommend the most effective ones
for IT professionals

Reflect on personal self-management

skills and provide a plan for
improvement.
 Emily, a junior executive at a marketing firm, has been invited to a business
lunch with a potential client, Mr. Johnson, and her supervisor, Sarah. The
lunch is intended to discuss a potential partnership opportunity between
their companies. The business lunch takes place at a local restaurant known
for its upscale ambiance and excellent cuisine. Emily is excited but also
nervous about making a good impression and navigating the nuances of
business etiquette during the meal.

Case Study • Etiquette Considerations:

• Seating & Attire: How should Emily and Sarah determine the seating arrangement to ensure a
smooth flow of conversation and respect for hierarchy, and what would be an appropriate attire?
• Conversation Topics: What topics of conversation are appropriate for a business lunch, and how
can Emily steer the discussion towards the partnership opportunity without being overly
aggressive?
• Ordering and Dining Etiquette: How should Emily and Sarah handle the menu and ordering
process to avoid any awkwardness or confusion? What dining etiquette should they observe during
the meal?
• Handling the Bill: When the bill arrives, should Emily and Sarah offer to pay, or should they
expect Mr. Johnson to cover the expenses? How can they gracefully navigate the situation without
causing offense?
• Thanking and Follow-up: How should Emily and Sarah express gratitude to Mr. Johnson for his
time and consideration after the meal? What steps can they take to follow up on the discussion and
maintain positive rapport?
 1.How important is it to establish a seating arrangement that
fosters productive conversation and respects hierarchy
during a business lunch?

2.What strategies can Emily use to guide the conversation

towards the partnership opportunity without appearing too
pushy or aggressive?

3.What are some common pitfalls to avoid when ordering

Discussion Questions and dining during a business lunch, and how can Emily and
Sarah ensure they present themselves professionally?

4.What are the cultural or industry-specific expectations

regarding the handling of the bill during a business lunch,
and how should Emily and Sarah navigate this situation
gracefully?

5.How can Emily and Sarah express appreciation to Mr.

Johnson for his time and consideration without coming
across as insincere or overly formal? What are some effective
ways to follow up on the discussion and maintain positive
relations with Mr. Johnson and his company?
 Navigating business etiquette during a lunch or
dinner meeting requires tact, professionalism, and
Observation cultural awareness. By discussing and addressing
these considerations, Emily and Sarah can ensure
they make a positive impression and maximize the
potential for a successful partnership with Mr.
Johnson and his company.
Questions?

The End
What Happens Next?
▪ Chapter 5

▪ The next session will focus on the following concepts:

➢ Attire Standards for IT Pros
 What will be covered in
today’s lesson?

Uniforms

Week 3 Business-Professional & Business Casual

Lesson 6 Jeans Day

Business Meeting Apparel

Trade Show Apparel

 Uniforms
1.Identification:
Uniforms help identify individuals as
part of a specific group or organization,
whether it's a school, military unit,
airline crew, or healthcare facility. This
facilitates easy recognition and fosters a
I B
sense of belonging.
2.Professionalism:
Uniforms often convey professionalism and
authority. They can instil confidence in
P S
clients, customers, or patients, as they
associate the uniform with expertise and
competence.
3.Brand Representation:
In many cases, uniforms serve as a form of
branding, displaying company logos, colours,
or insignias. This helps promote brand
recognition and reinforces the organization's
image and values.
4. Safety:
In certain industries, such as construction,
manufacturing, or healthcare, uniforms may
include specialized clothing or protective gear
to ensure the safety and well-being of
workers.
 Uniforms

Can you identify some??? →

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 Business-Professional & Business-Casual Dress
Business-Professional Dress:
•Business-professional dress is typically the most
formal attire worn in professional environments.
•For men, this often includes a suit (matching jacket
and pants), a dress shirt, a tie, and dress shoes.
Accessories like cufflinks and a belt are also
P or khakis, a collared shirt (such as a button-up or polo
common.
•For women, business-professional attire may
include a tailored suit, a blouse or button-up shirt,
dress slacks or a skirt (typically knee-length or
longer), closed-toe shoes with a moderate heel, and
minimal jewellery.
•Colours are typically conservative and muted, such
as black, navy, grey, or dark brown.
•This dress code is commonly observed in traditional
corporate settings, formal meetings, presentations,
and client-facing interactions where a polished and
professional appearance is expected.
Business-Casual Dress:
•Business-casual dress is more relaxed than business-
professional attire but still maintains a professional
appearance.
•For men, business-casual attire may include dress slacks
shirt), dress shoes or loafers, and optional accessories like
a belt or casual watch. Ties are typically not required.
•Women's business-casual attire can include dress slacks,
skirts (typically knee-length or longer), blouses, sweaters,
or casual dresses. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with a
C moderate heel are appropriate, along with simple
jewellery or accessories.
•Colours and patterns can be more varied and may include
lighter hues, subtle prints, or casual fabrics like cotton or
linen.
•Business-casual dress is often suitable for everyday office
wear, team meetings, casual networking events, or less
formal client interactions where a professional yet
approachable appearance is appropriate.
 Business-Professional Dress

Business-Professional Dress:

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 Business-Casual Dress

Business-Casual Dress:

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 Jeans Day
3.Guidelines
While jeans are permitted, there are
usually guidelines to ensure
appropriateness. These guidelines may
include restrictions on overly casual or
distressed jeans and requirements for
neatness..
2. Scheduled Occurrence
Employers typically establish specific
days, often weekly or monthly, for jeans
day. For example, it might be every Friday
or the last Friday of the month.
Jeans Day
1. Definition
Jeans day is a designated day in a
professional setting where employees are
allowed to wear denim jeans to work
instead of the usual business attire.
4.Purpose
Jeans days serve various purposes, including
boosting morale, fostering camaraderie, and
supporting charitable causes. They provide a
break from the formality of traditional business
attire and can promote a more relaxed
atmosphere in the workplace.
5. Charitable Initiatives
Some jeans days incorporate fundraising
or awareness-building activities.
Employees may be asked to make a
donation to a charitable cause in exchange
for wearing jeans, or the company may
sponsor a specific charity on jeans days.
6. Communication
Employers communicate the details of
jeans days in advance, including the
schedule, guidelines for attire, and any
associated charitable initiatives. Clear
communication ensures that everyone
understands the expectations and purpose
of jeans days.
Activity
Discuss and implement the appropriate
dress code that is relevant to your business.

Play this Video →

 Business Meeting Apparel
4.Accessories
5.Grooming
Minimal and understated accessories are
Hair should be neat and well-groomed, and facial hair
recommended for business meetings. A watch,
should be trimmed and tidy. Nails should be clean
simple jewellery, and a professional briefcase or
and trimmed, and makeup should be minimal and
portfolio for carrying documents.
professional.
3.For WOMEN
It includes a pantsuit or skirt suit in neutral or 6.Adherence to company culture
dark colours. Or, a dress or blouse paired with
It's essential to consider the company culture
pants, or a skirt is appropriate. Closed-toe shoes
Option Option and the expectations of the meeting attendees
with a moderate heel, such as pumps or flats. when selecting business meeting attire. In some
A B
industries or companies, a more relaxed dress
2.For MEN code may be acceptable, while others may
This often includes a tailored suit in neutral colours .The require a more formal appearance.
suit should be paired with a shirt, typically in white or
light blue, and a tie. Shoes, such as oxfords or loafers,
and dress socks complete the look.
7.Comfort
1.Formality While professionalism is key, it's also important to
Business meeting apparel typically leans towards prioritize comfort when selecting business meeting
the formal end of the spectrum. It conveys attire. Clothing should fit well and allow for ease of
professionalism, competence, and respect for the movement, ensuring that you can focus on the meeting
meeting and its participants. agenda without distraction.
Trade Show Apparel
Trade show apparel refers to the attire worn by exhibitors and attendees at
trade shows, which are events where companies showcase their products
and services to potential customers, partners, and industry professionals.

Trade show apparel should strike a balance between professionalism,

comfort, and visibility, allowing exhibitors and attendees to present
themselves effectively while maximizing their comfort and mobility during
the event.
Summary

Workspace dressing involves selecting appropriate attire for the workplace to

convey professionalism and respect. It includes choosing clothing that aligns
with the company culture and industry norms while maintaining personal
style. Workspace dressing emphasizes neatness, modesty, and comfort, with
attention to factors such as fit, cleanliness, and grooming. By dressing
appropriately, employees can create a positive impression, enhance their
confidence, and contribute to a professional work environment.
 Questions for Discussion

How does the dress code for IT professionals vary between different types of IT roles,
1 such as software developers, systems administrators, or IT consultants?

How does the dress code policy align with the company culture and values, and how
2 does it contribute to employee morale, engagement, and retention within the IT
department?

How does the dress code impact the perception of professionalism and credibility
3 among IT professionals, both internally within the company and externally with
clients or stakeholders?
Questions?

The End
What Happens Next?
▪ Submit deliverable 2 today

▪ The next sessions will focus on the following concepts:

➢ Effective Communication
➢ Active Listening