A part of ending 2014 was the multitude of articles, career tips and tweets that reminded everyone how to behave at holiday gatherings. What is forgotten is that it is not only during the holidays that people must remember to employ their best behavior online, at social engagements and every day at the office. Even though we are taught at an early age to “never judge a book by its cover”, reality is that perception does affect our professional lives.  So keep in mind a few helpful hints that will not only keep your name in good standing but could lead to other great opportunities.

1. I am sure you used your company’s holiday gatherings to your advantage. Hopefully after this year’s holiday party you were the topic of someone’s conversation on their ride home because of your exceptional networking techniques, not for being the questionable character of the night.  Follow up on any leads, networks or possible partnerships that you may have discussed at the end of the year party. Start the New Year with a gentle reminder to get together for lunch, phone call or meeting at the local gym.

1. 79% of recruiters look at potential employees’ online presence. The MUSE recently published an article that reminds everyone that social media can help you gain your next employment opportunity just as quickly as it can derail your career.  Your LinkedIN profile may be professional, but is your Facebook, Instagram or Twitter accounts showing a less desirable employee?

1. Annual reviews do not just reflect a snapshot in time. My first supervisor, which was the principal of the school I taught at, told me that even though we are given an annual formal evaluation that uses specific benchmarks, goals and assessments our daily behavior is taken into consideration when she completed our reviews.  Avoid being the constant complainer, office busy body or unprofessional. You may not think others are observing you, but you never know.

1. Be nice to everyone, even the stranger on the elevator. At The Lambright Group one of our constant reminders to candidates is to be cordial and professional when you arrive for your interview. This should be common practice even if you already have the job. Some people think that because a person is not their direct colleague or upper-management, they do not have to treat them with respect. This is a bad practice. You would be surprised how many Directors, Vice Presidents and CEO value their administrative assistant’s opinion or view of employees. Also, keep in mind that person that you were rude to on the elevator could be your next boss or the bosses spouse. Remember impressions go along way!

1. Dress for the job you want. The old adage is “Don’t dress for the job you have but the one you want”.  It is important to follow the culture of your potential or current employer when you decide what you are wearing that day. Prepare your clothes the night before which allows for changes and not the unsettledness of rushing out the door in the morning. Casual Friday does not mean dress for the beach or nightclub, so make sure that your jeans or khakis are pressed, blouses are not too sheer and shirts are office appropriate not tight fitting enough for the gym.