You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘He (or she) is a class act’. In fact I’m sure you can think of someone right now that you consider a class act. I think of Audrey Hepburn, Sandra Bullock, Will Smith, Tom Hanks or a few people that I have had the pleasure of knowing or working with.

So what exactly is a class act? The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines it as ‘an example of outstanding quality or prestige’.  Author Jack Canfield in his book ‘The Success Principals’ describes this type of person as someone who attracts people with class to his or her sphere of influence’.  At work, this is likely to be someone that you admire, who seems like they really have their act together and frankly, you’d love to try to be a little bit more like them.

There are a few traits that people who are class acts have in common:

• They take responsibility for their actions. They own both their successes and their fiascos.
• They show respect and appreciation towards others. They don’t gossip or say mean-spirited things about people.
• They stay calm in tough situations. Don’t lose their temper or get frazzled rather, they do what they can in the problem solving process. It’s called grace under pressure for a reason!
• They make others feel good about themselves help them feel included and appreciated for doing their part.
• Just by being who they are…great role models, they help others to become their best selves.

Want to become known as a class act yourself? Here are some tips to get you on the right path.

• Always represent your company’s image and values.
• Dress your body in tasteful style – well groomed and wrinkle free.
• Don’t confuse casual with carelessness.
• NEVER use the word ‘classy’ to describe yourself – If you think you have to tell people you’re classy…they’ll know you’re not.
• Generously respect people’s personal and professional privacy.
• Mind others personal boundaries.
• Take care with your company’s property and resources.
• Smile!!! And be welcoming.
• Be mindful of people’s time.
• Assume people have positive intentions.
• Intend to help.
• Try to create a pleasant experience for everyone.
• Never be the loudest person in the room.
• Keep personal information personal – whether it’s yours or someone else’s.
• Don’t assume people understand jargon or acronyms.
• Avoid slang – especially in an email.
• Always say ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and apologize if you need to.
• Acknowledge other’s contributions joyfully and regularly.