MODULE 4

RESUME WRITING AND CV BUILDING

Difference between Resume and Cv

Resume :- A résumé is a targeted marketing tool specific to the job

for which you are applying. It is generally more compact and focused
on work experience.

CV - A CV is an on-going academic (and work) history used by those

seeking employment within academic or research communities.
A CV may also include professional references, coursework, fieldwork,
descriptions of research projects or dissertations, hobbies and interests
and a personal profile that lists your skills and positive attributes. Generally,
a CV is chronological and starts with your educational experience.Some
key components of a CV are:
 Contact information
 CV personal statement
 Education
 Skills and expertise
 Recognition and awards
 Certificates
 Qualifications
 Publications and presentations
 Affiliations and memberships
 Work experince

A resume is a document that summarises your career history, skills and education. A
resume may also list relevant professional associations or volunteer work and may
include an objective statement that shares your professional goals. The term resume
originates from the French word résumé, which translates to 'abstract' or 'summary'.
Some key elements of a resume include:

The difference between resume and CV

include the document’s length and the ability to customise layout options. Additionally,
the region and career path of the individual is required to be taken into account when
deciding which is appropriate to use. See more on how they differ below.
  Length: While most people strive to keep their resume as concise as
possible, ideally only one to two pages, a CV can run several pages in
length. That is because a CV includes more information than a resume.
 Experience/career type: Often, CVs are used by people in academic
roles. You may have a CV if you are currently applying to or have
graduated from a Master’s or Doctoral program or if you work as a
professor or researcher at an academic institution.
 Ability to customise: A CV is a static document that does not change.
You may add new information to a CV throughout your professional
career but the information would not change based on where you are
applying. A resume, on the other hand, is often tailored to highlight
specific skills or experiences relevant to the position or industry.

 Geography: In other regions of the world, such as the U.K., New

Zealand and parts of Europe, employers use the term CV to describe
both CV and resume-style documents. They do not use the term
'resume' at all. In South Africa, Australia and India, the terms CV and
resume are often used interchangeably.

Resume CV
Used when applying for a position in Used when applying for positions in
industry, non-profit, and public sector academics, fellowships and grants
Emphasises academic
Emphasises skills
accomplishments
Chronological, functional or
Open Format
combination format
No longer than 2 pages, with an
Length depends upon experience
additional page for publications and/or
and includes a complete list of
presentations if highly relevant to the
publications and presentations
job
Limited resume sections Sections depend on jo requirements
ESSENTIALS OF WRITING A GOOD RESUME :-

Components of a good resume:

Personal Information

Your name, address, city, state, cell phone number and email address should be highly visible,
centered at the top of the page.

*Note: E-mail address and cell phone voicemail must be professional.

Objective (optional) :Not all employers require an objective. An objective identifies which position you
are seeking. Place an objective on your resume when you are applying for a specific position.

Highlights of Qualifications : The qualifications section delivers an impact at the top of your resume –
it’s your first impression. The qualification statements should match your skills to the target job
description. You want the employers to read the summary and say “we have to meet this person.”
Information in this section must be customized to fit each position you apply for. Place most important
words first since the scanner may be limited in the number of words it reads. List hard skills not soft
skills (see skills sheet).

Experience
Use separate headings for Internship and Work experience List in reverse chronological order, specifying
employer name, city and state, job title, and dates of employment. Use action verbs (see sheet) to
describe your tasks, hi-lighting your accomplishments and skills (review accomplishment sheet) and
relating these to individual job requirements. If you have not completed an internship, you may consider
adding a section titled “Career Related Experience”.

Education
List all collegiate experiences (degree received) in reverse chronological order. Include school name, city
and state, degree, anticipated graduation date, majors, minors, GPA (optional). You may also list
relevant course work, Dean’s List, and scholarships. Study abroad would also be listed under this section
using the same format.

Activities
Employers have indicated that involvement in extracurricular activities demonstrates leadership, time
management and organizational skills. The following is a list of activities that can be included in this
section: organizations/associations, volunteerism, community involvement, and athletic teams, (if you
have held a leadership position, be sure to include this with the activity).
References
“Reference available upon request,” can be omitted. It is understood that you will supply references.
Create a separate reference page and bring it with you to the interview. Include the reference name,
title, organization/company name, business address, phone number, and email of each reference.
Include only those persons who have agreed to serve as a reference for you. List all your personal
information at the top of this page.
HOW TO BUILD A GOOD CV :-

Building a strong CV (curriculum vitae) is essential to making a good first impression with
potential employers. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create a compelling CV:
Building a strong CV (curriculum vitae) is essential to making a good first impression with
potential employers. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create a compelling CV:
1. Choose the Right CV Format
There are three main CV formats to choose from, depending on your career situation:
 Reverse-Chronological Format: Best for those with a consistent work history. Lists jobs and
education from most recent to oldest.
 Functional (Skills-Based) Format: Focuses on skills and qualifications rather than chronological
work history. Good for those with gaps in employment or changing careers.
 Combination (Hybrid) Format: Mixes both chronological and functional, highlighting skills and
experience.

2. Header Section
This should include the following:
 Full Name: Make sure it stands out (larger font size).
 Contact Information: Include phone number, professional email address, and LinkedIn profile (if
applicable). If you're applying internationally, consider adding your location (city, country) but
only include your full address if it's relevant.
 Professional Title: This should be a brief, specific job title that aligns with the role you're
applying for (e.g., "Software Engineer," "Marketing Specialist").

3. Professional Summary (Optional)

A brief section (2-4 lines) summarizing your career highlights, key skills, and what you're
looking for in your next role. Tailor this to each job application, showcasing how you can add
value to the company.
Example:
Results-oriented digital marketing professional with 5+ years of experience in SEO and content
strategy. Proven track record of boosting online traffic by 40%. Seeking to leverage my expertise
in a senior marketing role at a forward-thinking tech company.
4. Key Skills
List 6-10 skills that are directly relevant to the job you're applying for. These can include both
hard and soft skills. Use bullet points for easy readability.
Examples:
 Data analysis (Advanced Excel, SQL)
 Social media strategy
 Project management
 Communication & teamwork
 Agile methodologies
 Public speaking
5. Professional Experience
List your work experience in reverse-chronological order (starting with your most recent job).
For each position, include:
 Job Title
 Company Name
 Location (City, Country)
 Dates of Employment (Month/Year – Month/Year)
For each role, write 3-5 bullet points outlining your key responsibilities and accomplishments.
Focus on achievements and quantifiable results rather than just listing duties.
Example:
Marketing Manager
XYZ Tech Solutions – New York, NY
January 2020 – Present
 Led a team of 5 to create digital campaigns that increased brand visibility by 50%.
 Managed annual marketing budget of $500K, ensuring cost-effective strategies.
 Increased social media engagement by 30% through targeted content strategies.
 Collaborated with cross-functional teams to launch 3 successful product campaigns.

6. Education
List your degrees and certifications, in reverse chronological order. Include:
 Degree(s)
 Institution Name
 Dates Attended (Month/Year – Month/Year)
 Relevant Coursework or Honors (optional but recommended for recent graduates or if relevant
to the job)
Example:
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing
University of California, Berkeley – Berkeley, CA
Graduated: May 2019
 Relevant coursework: Consumer Behavior, Digital Marketing, Data Analytics

7. Certifications (Optional but Recommended)

If you have relevant certifications, list them in a separate section or under education.
 Google Analytics Certified
 Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
 PMP (Project Management Professional)

8. Projects (Optional)
If you have significant projects or freelance work that demonstrate relevant skills, list them here.
This is especially useful for those changing careers or with gaps in employment.
Example:
Freelance Web Developer
June 2021 – Present
 Designed and developed websites for 5 small businesses, improving their online sales by an
average of 25%.
9. Volunteer Work or Extracurricular Activities (Optional)
This section is especially important if you're a recent graduate, early in your career, or if your
volunteer experience demonstrates skills relevant to the job you're applying for.
Example:
Volunteer Marketing Coordinator
Big Brothers Big Sisters – Los Angeles, CA
January 2018 – June 2020
 Organized fundraising campaigns that raised over $10K for community programs.

10. Languages (Optional)

If you speak more than one language, list them here, specifying your proficiency level (e.g.,
native, fluent, conversational, basic).
Example:
 English (Native)
 Spanish (Fluent)
 French (Intermediate)

11. Additional Sections (Optional)

 Awards: If you’ve received any notable awards or recognitions, list them here.
 Publications: If relevant, list any published papers, articles, or blog posts.
 Hobbies/Interests: Only include this if they’re relevant to the role or if you have something that
sets you apart.

Tips for Creating a Winning CV:

 Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV for each job you apply to. Use keywords from the job
description to help your CV pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
 Use Action Verbs: Start each bullet point with a strong action verb (e.g., “led,” “designed,”
“developed”).
 Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, include numbers to show the impact of your work
(e.g., "increased sales by 30%" or "managed a team of 5").
 Keep it Concise: Limit your CV to one or two pages. Be concise, but ensure all important details
are included.
 Proofread: Check for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished CV shows attention to detail.
 Formatting: Use clear, easy-to-read fonts (e.g., Arial, Calibri) and consistent formatting
throughout.

Example of a Basic CV Layout:

[Your Name]
[Your Professional Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Professional Summary
[2-3 sentences summarizing your experience and skills]

Key Skills
 Skill 1
 Skill 2
 Skill 3
 Skill 4

Professional Experience
[Job Title]
[Company Name] – [Location] | [Dates of Employment]

 Achievement 1
 Achievement 2
 Achievement 3
[Previous Job Title]
[Previous Company Name] – [Location] | [Dates of Employment]
 Achievement 1
 Achievement 2
 Achievement 3

Education
[Degree]
[University Name] – [Location] | [Graduation Date]

Certifications
[Certification Name]
[Certification Name].
COMMON MISTAKES IN PREPARING A GOOD RESUME / BUILDING A GOOD CV

When preparing a resume (or CV), there are several common mistakes that can reduce its
effectiveness and hurt your chances of landing an interview. Below are some of the most
frequent errors and how to avoid them:
1. Lack of Customization for Each Job
 Mistake: Submitting the same generic resume for every job application.
 Solution: Tailor your CV to each position by emphasizing relevant skills, experiences, and
achievements that match the job description. Use keywords from the job posting to ensure your
CV passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

2. Failing to Quantify Achievements

 Mistake: Focusing solely on responsibilities and duties without demonstrating impact.
  Solution: Where possible, quantify your achievements with numbers, percentages, or specific
results. For example, instead of "Managed a team," say "Managed a team of 10, leading to a
20% increase in team productivity."

3. Overloading with Information

 Mistake: Including irrelevant or excessive information, making the CV too long or cluttered.
 Solution: Keep the CV concise (typically 1-2 pages) and relevant. Only include information that
directly supports the role you're applying for. Avoid unnecessary personal details (e.g., date of
birth, marital status) unless explicitly requested.

4. Using an Unprofessional Email Address

 Mistake: Using a casual or unprofessional email address, such as "cooldude123@gmail.com."
 Solution: Create a professional email address using your first and last name (e.g.,
"johndoe@email.com"). If you need to, consider creating a new email address for job
applications.

5. Spelling and Grammar Errors

 Mistake: Spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, or inconsistent punctuation.
 Solution: Always proofread your CV carefully. Use spell check and read through it multiple
times. It's often helpful to have someone else review your resume as well.

6. Using a Cluttered or Hard-to-Read Layout

 Mistake: Overloading the CV with too many colors, fonts, or dense paragraphs, which can make
it hard to read.
 Solution: Stick to a clean, professional layout with plenty of white space. Use easy-to-read fonts
like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, and keep font size between 10 and 12 points. Ensure
that each section is clearly defined with headings and bullet points.

7. Lack of a Strong Professional Summary

 Mistake: Skipping the professional summary or using a generic statement that doesn’t capture
your unique strengths.
 Solution: Include a brief (2-4 sentence) summary at the beginning of your CV that highlights
your most important skills, experience, and career objectives. Tailor this to the specific job
you’re applying for.

8. Failure to Use Action Verbs

 Mistake: Using passive language or vague terms like “responsible for” instead of action-oriented
phrases.
 Solution: Start each bullet point with strong action verbs like “led,” “managed,” “developed,”
“designed,” or “increased.” This makes your achievements stand out more clearly.

9. Not Including Keywords for ATS

 Mistake: Not optimizing your CV for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which many companies
use to screen resumes.
 Solution: Tailor your CV with keywords from the job description, especially for technical or
industry-specific terms. ATS systems often scan for these keywords to rank your CV higher. Use
these terms naturally in your work experience and skills section.
10. Overemphasizing Job Duties, Not Achievements
 Mistake: Listing job responsibilities without focusing on what you actually achieved in each role.
 Solution: Instead of listing what you "did," focus on how you performed. Describe how your
actions led to measurable results (e.g., "Increased sales by 30%" or "Reduced customer
complaints by 25%").

11. Using Jargon or Buzzwords

 Mistake: Overloading your CV with buzzwords or industry jargon that might not be familiar to all
readers, including recruiters.
 Solution: Be mindful of using clear, simple language. If you use technical terms or jargon, ensure
that they are widely understood or relevant to the job you're applying for.

12. Ignoring the Importance of the Cover Letter

 Mistake: Not submitting a cover letter, or submitting a generic one that doesn’t relate to the
job.
 Solution: Always include a tailored cover letter that highlights your interest in the role and how
your experience matches the employer's needs. This is a chance to showcase your personality
and enthusiasm for the position.

13. Unexplained Gaps in Employment

 Mistake: Leaving unexplained gaps in your employment history, which can raise red flags for
recruiters.
 Solution: If you have employment gaps, briefly explain them in your CV or cover letter (e.g.,
“Took time off to travel” or “Pursued further education”). Be honest, but focus on the positive
skills or experiences you gained during the gap.

14. Not Including Relevant Skills

 Mistake: Not including key skills that are relevant to the role or failing to showcase your
proficiency.
 Solution: List both hard and soft skills that match the job. For example, if you're applying for a
marketing job, include skills like SEO, digital marketing, data analysis, or project management,
and soft skills like communication and leadership.

15. Failing to Update Your CV Regularly

 Mistake: Letting your CV get outdated and not reflecting your most recent job experiences,
skills, or achievements.
 Solution: Regularly update your CV, especially after completing a significant project, role
change, or gaining new skills or certifications. A fresh CV ensures you're always ready for new
opportunities.
 MODULE 5

PROFESSIONAL , SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ETIQUETTES

Meanings of etiquettes

"Etiquette" refers to the customary codes of polite behavior and social manners that people are
expected to follow in various situations. It includes things like respectful communication, good
table manners, and appropriate conduct in different social or professional settings. Essentially,
it's a set of rules or guidelines that help ensure smooth, respectful interactions between
individuals in society.

Types of Etiquettes
There are various types of etiquette, each relevant to different aspects of life. Here are some of
the main types:
1. Social Etiquette: The set of manners and behaviors considered acceptable in social
interactions. This includes polite greetings, table manners, and respectful communication.
2. Business Etiquette: The professional conduct, manners, and communication protocols
expected in the workplace. This includes dressing appropriately, punctuality, and how to
address colleagues or superiors.
3. Dining Etiquette: The proper manners observed during meals, both in formal and
informal settings. This includes how to use utensils, when to start eating, and how to
engage in polite conversation at the table.
4. International Etiquette: The cultural norms and behaviors considered polite in different
countries. Understanding and respecting local customs and traditions is essential when
traveling or doing business abroad.
5. Online Etiquette (Netiquette): The guidelines for behaving respectfully in digital
communication, including emails, social media, and forums. It focuses on clear, concise,
and respectful messaging.
6. Phone Etiquette: The proper way to make, receive, and conduct conversations over the
phone, such as answering promptly, speaking clearly, and being considerate of the other
person's time.
7. Wedding Etiquette: The appropriate behavior surrounding wedding events, such as
sending invitations, attending ceremonies, and gift-giving customs.
8. Protocol Etiquette: This refers to formal rules of conduct, especially in diplomatic,
governmental, and state matters. It includes respecting hierarchy, understanding
ceremonial duties, and adhering to specific procedures in official events.
9. Gift Etiquette: The social norms around giving and receiving gifts, including when to
give, what is appropriate, and how to express gratitude.

Social Etiquettes :-
Social etiquette refers to the unwritten rules and conventions that guide behavior and interactions
in everyday social settings. It helps individuals navigate social situations with respect, courtesy,
and consideration for others. Here are some key aspects of social etiquette:
1. Greetings and Introductions
 Polite Greetings: Using phrases like "Hello," "Good morning," or "How are you?" when meeting
someone.
 Handshake or Other Forms of Greetings: A handshake is common in many cultures, while
others may bow, kiss on the cheek, or use other gestures.
 Introducing Yourself: When introducing yourself, be polite, clear, and offer a firm handshake (if
appropriate) while maintaining eye contact.

2. Respectful Conversation
 Active Listening: Pay attention, don't interrupt, and show interest in what the other person is
saying.
  Avoiding Sensitive Topics: Steer clear of controversial subjects like politics or religion unless
you're certain the other person is comfortable discussing them.
 Polite Interruptions: If you need to interrupt, do so politely with phrases like "Excuse me" or
"Sorry to interrupt."

3. Table Manners
 Proper Use of Utensils: Hold utensils properly, chew with your mouth closed, and refrain from
talking with food in your mouth.
 Wait for Others: Wait for everyone to be served before you begin eating.
 Passing Items: Pass items like salt, pepper, or condiments to others politely, usually with your
left hand or both hands.

4. Personal Space
 Respecting Boundaries: Be mindful of people's personal space and avoid standing or sitting too
close unless you're familiar with the person.
 Non-intrusive Behavior: Avoid behaviors that may make others uncomfortable, such as
excessive touching or staring.

5. Good Manners
 Saying "Please" and "Thank You": These simple expressions go a long way in showing
appreciation and respect.
 Apologizing When Necessary: If you make a mistake, offer a sincere apology.
 Being Considerate: Hold the door open for others, offer your seat to someone in need, and be
mindful of others' feelings.

6. Punctuality
 Arriving on Time: Being punctual is a sign of respect for others' time. If you’re running late,
notify the person ahead of time.
 Being Present: If you're attending a social event, make an effort to stay for an appropriate
amount of time, or at least notify the host if you need to leave early.

7. Respecting Different Cultures and Traditions

 Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of and respect cultural norms, especially when meeting people
from different backgrounds.
 Polite Behavior: Certain gestures, words, or actions may have different meanings in various
cultures, so it's important to avoid unintentionally offending someone.

8. Dress Etiquette
 Dressing Appropriately: Dress in a way that suits the occasion, whether it's casual for a social
gathering or more formal for a dinner or event.
 Personal Grooming: Maintaining basic hygiene and grooming standards is important for social
acceptance.

9. Offering and Receiving Compliments

 Giving Compliments: Offer genuine compliments, but avoid being excessive or insincere.
 Receiving Compliments: When someone compliments you, respond graciously with a simple
"Thank you," rather than downplaying or deflecting it.
10. Respecting Others' Time
 Avoiding Overstaying Your Welcome: Be mindful of when it’s time to leave a social gathering
and avoid lingering too long if it seems like the host is ready for the event to end.
 Being Considerate in Group Settings: In group conversations, make sure everyone gets a chance
to speak, and avoid dominating the conversation.
Professional Etiquettes :-
Professional etiquette refers to the set of accepted behaviors, manners, and practices that are
expected in a professional setting. It encompasses how individuals interact with colleagues,
clients, and business partners in a respectful and considerate manner. Professional etiquette can
vary across cultures and industries, but it generally includes the following key aspects:
1. Communication: Using clear, respectful, and appropriate language in both verbal and
written forms. This also includes being prompt in replying to emails or phone calls and
actively listening to others.
2. Punctuality: Arriving on time for meetings, deadlines, and other professional
commitments. Being late is often seen as disrespectful and unprofessional.
3. Appearance: Dressing appropriately for your workplace, which may vary depending on
industry norms (formal, business casual, or casual). A neat, tidy appearance shows
respect for yourself and others.
4. Respect and Courtesy: Treating everyone with dignity, maintaining good manners, and
being mindful of diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
5. Professionalism: Exhibiting behavior that reflects competence and integrity. This
includes handling conflicts calmly, keeping a positive attitude, and adhering to ethical
standards.
6. Body Language: Being aware of non-verbal cues, such as eye contact, posture, and
handshakes, which can influence how others perceive you.
7. Confidentiality: Respecting the privacy and sensitive information of your workplace and
colleagues.
8. Networking and Relationship Building: Building strong, professional relationships
based on trust, mutual respect, and support.
Cultural Etiquettes
Cultural etiquettes refer to the expected behaviors, manners, and traditions that are considered
polite or appropriate within a specific culture or society. These norms vary significantly across
different countries, regions, and communities. Here are some examples of cultural etiquettes
from various parts of the world:

1. Greetings and Communication

 Japan: A bow is a common greeting, and it’s important to bow at the appropriate angle based
on the formality of the situation.
 Middle East: A handshake is common, but it’s often more formal and may include placing the
hand on the heart after shaking. For women, a handshake may not be offered if they are not
familiar.
 France: A kiss on both cheeks (air kisses) is a typical greeting among friends and acquaintances,
but the number of kisses can vary by region.
2. Dining Etiquette
 China: It is common to wait for the eldest person to start eating before others begin. Also,
finishing all your food on the plate can imply that you were not given enough.
 India: It’s customary to eat with the right hand only, as the left hand is traditionally considered
unclean.
 Germany: It’s important to keep your hands visible on the table (resting them on the table)
during meals and to make eye contact during toasts.

3. Gift Giving
 Japan: Gift giving is an important practice, and gifts are often wrapped carefully. Avoid giving
gifts in sets of four, as the number is associated with death.
 Russia: Flowers are a common gift, but avoid giving an even number of flowers, as it is
associated with funerals.
 Thailand: When giving a gift, it’s polite to present it with both hands.
4. Personal Space and Physical Contact
USA: In general, personal space is valued. A handshake or a brief hug may be appropriate, but public
displays of affection are usually limited.

Italy: Italians are known for close physical proximity during conversations, so standing close to others is
common.

Sweden: Swedes typically value personal space, and they might feel uncomfortable with close physical
proximity unless they know you well.

5. Punctuality

Germany: Punctuality is a sign of respect, and being late is often considered rude or unprofessional.

Latin America: There is generally more flexibility around time, and being slightly late is usually not a big
issue, though for formal events, punctuality is still important.

Japan: Punctuality is highly valued, and arriving even a few minutes late is frowned upon in both social
and professional settings.

6. Table Manners
France: It’s polite to keep your hands visible but not rest your elbows on the table. Bread is placed
directly on the table, not on a plate.

Mexico: It’s polite to compliment the cook before or during the meal, and meals are often seen as social
events to be enjoyed leisurely.

Thailand: It is considered polite to eat with a spoon (used in the right hand) and fork (used in the left
hand), though the fork is generally not used for eating directly; it is used to push food onto the spoon.
7. Respect for Elders
 Korea: There is a deep cultural respect for elders, and younger people are expected to bow and
address older individuals using formal language.
 India: Elders are often greeted with a "Namaste" or "Pranam," a gesture of respect where you
place your hands together and bow slightly.
 Mexico: Elders are revered, and it’s customary to stand when an elder enters the room.

8. Dress Codes
 Saudi Arabia: Modesty in dress is expected, with women typically wearing an abaya (a long
black cloak), and men wearing long robes.
 France: Fashion is an important aspect of French culture, and people tend to dress stylishly and
well put together, even for casual outings.
 India: Modest clothing is important, particularly in rural areas or religious sites. Women often
wear long skirts, salwar kameez, or sarees.

9. Social Etiquette
 United Kingdom: Maintaining good manners is important, especially in terms of politeness, like
saying “please” and “thank you.” Social interactions are usually more reserved and formal.
 Brazil: People in Brazil are generally warm and affectionate, and physical touch, like hugs and
kisses, is common in both personal and professional interactions.
 Singapore: Being courteous, polite, and respectful of social order is important. The country is
known for its strict laws, so public behavior, such as littering or speaking loudly in public, can be
frowned upon.

10. Religion and Spirituality

 Israel: Israel is a country with significant religious traditions, especially around Judaism. It’s
important to respect Jewish practices like observing the Sabbath or dressing modestly when
visiting religious sites.
 India: Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and other religions have unique customs. For instance, removing
shoes before entering temples and refraining from touching sacred objects is customary.
 Indonesia: A predominantly Muslim country, Indonesia observes Islamic practices, and being
respectful of Islamic customs (such as fasting during Ramadan) is important.

CULTURAL ETIQUETTES IN CREATING A BETTER PERSONAL AND

PROFESSIONAL IMAGE

Creating a better personal and professional image often hinges on understanding and adapting to
cultural etiquettes. These etiquettes are social norms that vary from culture to culture and can
significantly impact relationships, both personal and professional. Adhering to them can foster
respect, improve communication, and contribute to success in various settings. Here's how
cultural etiquettes can shape a better personal and professional image:
1. Respect for Hierarchy and Authority
 Personal Image: In many cultures, showing respect to elders or people in higher positions is vital
for building a positive image. This might include addressing them formally, using titles, or
acknowledging their expertise.
 Professional Image: In a workplace, understanding the hierarchy and showing deference to
superiors is critical. In cultures like Japan or South Korea, bowing or using polite language is
common, whereas in the US or UK, professional boundaries are typically expressed through
respect for seniority or experience.

2. Non-Verbal Communication
 Personal Image: Non-verbal cues like body language, facial expressions, and eye contact vary
globally. In some cultures (like in many Western societies), making eye contact is seen as a sign
of confidence and respect. However, in others (like some East Asian cultures), too much eye
contact may be considered rude or confrontational.
 Professional Image: Understanding cultural norms around body language can prevent
misunderstandings. For example, in Latin American or Middle Eastern cultures, close physical
proximity during conversation is often normal, whereas it may be uncomfortable in Nordic or
Anglo-Saxon cultures.

3. Punctuality and Time Management

 Personal Image: Being on time is universally seen as a sign of respect, but how punctuality is
perceived can differ. In countries like Germany or Japan, punctuality is critical, and being even a
few minutes late is frowned upon. In contrast, in countries like Brazil or India, there’s often
more flexibility, though this doesn’t mean neglecting timeliness altogether.
 Professional Image: In the workplace, being consistently punctual or adhering to deadlines
builds trust and reliability. However, understanding the specific cultural context of time in
different countries can help avoid frustration. In cultures where time is more fluid (e.g.,
Mediterranean or Latin American), meetings might start later than scheduled, but this should
still be managed professionally.

4. Personal Space and Touching

 Personal Image: Different cultures have varying expectations of personal space and physical
touch. In some countries, physical greetings like hugs or cheek kisses are common (e.g., in
France or Italy), while in others, a handshake or bow is the norm (e.g., in Japan or the UK).
Knowing when and how to greet people appropriately can contribute to a positive first
impression.
 Professional Image: In professional settings, adhering to local customs for physical interactions
can show awareness of cultural sensitivities. A firm handshake might be expected in the U.S. or
Germany, while a bow might be appropriate in Japan, and a more relaxed, informal gesture (like
a slap on the back) could be acceptable in certain regions of South America.

5. Dress Code and Appearance

 Personal Image: Your attire communicates a lot about your respect for a culture or setting. In
more formal or conservative cultures (e.g., Saudi Arabia or India), dressing modestly and in line
with traditional customs is important. In more liberal environments (e.g., parts of Europe or the
 U.S.), casual attire may be more acceptable, but professional attire should still convey
competence.
 Professional Image: Understanding the dress code is crucial in the workplace, as dressing too
casually or too formally can send the wrong message. In some countries, a suit and tie are
expected, while in others, business casual or smart casual attire is the norm. In tech or creative
industries globally, a more laid-back dress code may be acceptable, but still, the clothing should
be neat and appropriate for the work environment.

6. Communication Style
 Personal Image: Effective communication often depends on how well you understand cultural
differences in speech. Some cultures value directness and assertiveness (e.g., the U.S.,
Germany), while others emphasize indirect communication and politeness (e.g., Japan,
Thailand). Being aware of these differences can prevent you from coming across as rude or
evasive.
 Professional Image: In professional settings, the way you communicate can significantly
influence your image. For example, in some cultures, silence may be valued as a sign of
contemplation, while in others, it might be seen as awkward or unproductive. Being mindful of
tone, politeness, and openness to feedback helps create a stronger professional presence.

7. Dining Etiquette
 Personal Image: How you behave at a dinner or social gathering can influence people's
perception of you. In many cultures, proper dining etiquette is important, such as waiting for the
host to start or using correct table manners. In some Asian cultures, it may be considered
impolite to leave food uneaten, while in Western cultures, you might be expected to keep
portions to a reasonable size.
 Professional Image: Business lunches or dinners can be a crucial part of building relationships. In
countries like China or Korea, there are complex rules about ordering, serving, and toasting at
meals, while in Western countries, the focus may be more on conversation. Understanding
these norms helps build rapport and shows respect for the host's culture.

8. Gift-Giving Practices
 Personal Image: In many cultures, giving gifts is a sign of appreciation or friendship, but there
are cultural nuances to consider. In Japan, gifts should be given and received with both hands,
while in many Middle Eastern countries, gifts might be offered with a sense of ceremony.
 Professional Image: In professional settings, gift-giving can be a delicate matter. In some
countries (e.g., China or Japan), it can symbolize respect, while in others (e.g., the U.S.), it may
not be as common in the business context. Be mindful of any cultural taboos, such as avoiding
certain colors, numbers, or types of gifts.

9. Understanding Cultural Holidays and Celebrations

 Personal Image: Knowing when and how different cultures celebrate holidays or milestones is a
sign of respect and awareness. For instance, wishing someone a Happy Lunar New Year or
recognizing Diwali can strengthen relationships.
 Professional Image: In the workplace, acknowledging holidays and personal celebrations can
help foster a positive environment. Being aware of religious or cultural observances (e.g.,
 Ramadan, Christmas) and how they may affect work schedules or expectations is also
essential for a respectful workplace culture.
Mastering cultural etiquette requires ongoing learning and adaptability. A culturally informed
approach helps you navigate personal and professional environments more effectively,
enhancing your reputation, building trust, and improving interpersonal interactions. By showing
respect for local customs and traditions, you demonstrate emotional intelligence, sensitivity, and
professionalism, which are essential components of a successful personal and professional
image.

CULTURAL ETIQUETTES IN CREATING A BETTER PERSONAL AND

PROFESSIONAL IMAGE