This article delves into the contemporary landscape of professional conduct, contrasting the views of two prominent figures: Kelly Cutrone, a formidable presence in the fashion world, and Bozoma Saint John, an influential executive with a background in major tech and entertainment firms. Their discussion, part of Vogue's 'Oh, Behave!' series, addresses a spectrum of workplace dilemmas, from initial job interviews to daily office interactions and digital communication strategies. The piece underscores the fluid nature of professional expectations, offering readers a dual perspective on what constitutes appropriate behavior in modern work settings.
The dialogue between Cutrone and Saint John highlights the shift in professional decorum since Vogue's 1948 Book of Etiquette. While Cutrone champions a traditional, demanding work ethic, emphasizing dedication and minimal personal expression in the workplace, Saint John advocates for a more nuanced approach, balancing professionalism with personal comfort and authenticity. Their differing opinions on matters such as work-life balance, office attire, and digital communication reveal the complexities individuals face in navigating professional environments today. This exploration aims to provide guidance while acknowledging that ultimately, the choice of which philosophy to embrace rests with the individual.
Interview Protocols and Professional Presentation
Navigating the initial stages of professional engagement, particularly job interviews, requires careful consideration of established and evolving etiquette. The discussion between Kelly Cutrone and Bozoma Saint John sheds light on various aspects, from the seemingly trivial act of bringing a beverage to an interview to the more substantial matters of resume accuracy and appropriate accessories. Their insights emphasize that every detail contributes to a candidate's overall impression, underscoring the importance of thoughtful preparation and self-awareness.
Both experts offer distinct, yet valuable, perspectives on interview conduct. Cutrone, with her no-nonsense approach, advises against bringing outside drinks to an interview, viewing it as a sign of casualness, and advocates for strict factual accuracy on resumes to avoid misrepresentation. She also cautions against overt displays of wealth, such as carrying a luxury handbag to an entry-level interview, deeming it potentially boastful. Saint John, while acknowledging the need for professionalism, offers a more adaptable viewpoint. She suggests that a beverage might be acceptable if offered to the interviewer, and while agreeing on resume honesty, she encourages using descriptive language to highlight achievements. Her advice regarding luxury accessories is context-dependent, suggesting their appropriateness only in roles within the luxury sector. Both agree that punctuality is key, but arriving too early can be disruptive, and a thoughtful follow-up, whether by email or a handwritten note, can leave a lasting positive impression, depending on the industry.
Office Conduct and Digital Communication Norms
Beyond the interview, maintaining appropriate conduct within the office and mastering digital communication are crucial for professional success and a harmonious work environment. The discussion between Kelly Cutrone and Bozoma Saint John extends to these daily interactions, providing a framework for navigating the unwritten rules of modern workplaces, from personal habits to virtual meeting etiquette.
In terms of in-office behavior, Cutrone firmly believes in separating personal life from professional duties, advocating for focused work without distractions like strong-smelling foods or visible emotional displays at one's desk. She also stresses that workplace attire should reflect the company's brand, not just personal style, and discourages personal printing on company resources. Saint John, while valuing professionalism, offers a more flexible stance. She suggests that eating at one's desk is acceptable if working, and that discreet personal expression through attire, like wearing red lipstick, should be encouraged as a form of diversity. Both agree on the importance of maintaining a quiet environment in open-plan offices and taking personal calls discreetly. Regarding digital communication, Cutrone emphasizes responsiveness to boss's emails, even late at night, and dislikes passive-aggressive phrasing like “per my last email.” She also expresses disdain for using AI tools like ChatGPT for email writing, preferring authentic communication. Saint John, conversely, finds ChatGPT efficient if used correctly, and believes certain emojis can be acceptable in communication with superiors. Both concur that turning cameras on during Zoom meetings fosters better connection and that eating during virtual meetings is generally inappropriate, emphasizing that professionalism extends to the virtual realm.