Instructions
In the professional world, there are certain expectations for how people should act. This is often called "business etiquette." As you get older and have more experiences like volunteering or visiting workplaces, it's helpful to know these "do's and don'ts."
Read each real-world scenario on the left. Choose the most appropriate action from the "Do's and Don'ts" list on the right and write its letter in the box. Then, on the lines below each scenario, explain why your choice is the most respectful and professional option.
Scenarios
1. You are visiting your parent's office for the afternoon. You need to ask them a question, but they are in the middle of a serious-looking conversation with a coworker.
Match:
Why is this the best action?
2. You are volunteering at a community garden clean-up day. An adult visitor asks you a question about a specific plant, but you don't know the answer.
Match:
Why is this the best action?
3. You need to send an email to the librarian to ask about signing up for a youth volunteer program.
Match:
Why is this the best action?
4. You are with your family at a formal restaurant for a business dinner with one of your parent's clients. Your phone, which you forgot to silence, buzzes with a text message notification.
Match:
Why is this the best action?
5. You are helping set up for a bake sale at your community center. The adult in charge gives you a task, but you think there might be a faster or better way to do it.
Match:
Why is this the best action?
Do's and Don'ts
- A. Quickly silence your phone and put it away. Apologize once quietly ("Pardon me") and give your full attention back to the conversation.
- B. Do the task the way you were asked. Later, if it's a good time, you can privately and respectfully say, "For next time, I had an idea that might work well. Would you be open to hearing it?"
- C. Wait quietly and patiently a short distance away. Don't hover over them, but try to make eye contact when they are finished to show you are waiting politely.
- D. Write a professional email with a clear subject line (e.g., "Question about Youth Volunteer Program"), use proper grammar and punctuation, and sign with your full name.
- E. Say, "That's a great question! I'm not sure of the answer, but I can find Mrs. Davis, the garden coordinator, to help you."
Answer Key
1. Match: C
Why: Interrupting a business conversation is disrespectful to both people. It implies that your need is more important than their work. Waiting patiently shows that you respect their time and focus.
2. Match: E
Why: It is better to admit you don't know something and find the correct information than to guess and give the wrong answer. This shows honesty and responsibility, and it ensures the visitor gets accurate help.
3. Match: D
Why: A professional email shows respect for the person you are contacting. Using text slang, emojis, or bad grammar can seem childish or lazy. A clear subject line and proper formatting make it easier for the person to understand and respond to your request.
4. Match: A
Why: In a business or formal setting, your full attention should be on the people you are with. Looking at your phone is rude and sends the message that you are not interested in the conversation. A quick apology and silencing the phone is the most polite way to handle the mistake.
5. Match: B
Why: Arguing or immediately correcting a person in charge can seem disrespectful. By doing the task as requested first, you show that you are a good team player. Offering your suggestion later, in a polite and private way, shows initiative without undermining their authority.