YOLO -- So Do Not Blow It!

OMG! I seriously luuuuuvvvv Pop Culture, but really the jargon and rhetoric have no place in the
workplace, and especially not in an interview.  As catchy as it is to paraphrase TV shows, songs and stand up comedians among friends, colleagues and constituents deserve your best business ettiquite.

Walking into the office in the morning belting out in your best imitation of  Fetty Wop saying
"Hey whassup, hellloooooooo", is really not that appropriate.  Although it may sound like a fun way to greet others -- remember not as many people as you would like to think have him on repeat in their playlists.

In an interview, if someone asks you to describe yourself in 3 words or less, please do not say "Imma classic man"!  Jidenna, the artist who sings this song is implying that he is a young OG who can get lots of women and sell drugs.  This is probably not the impression you want to give.

If a coworker compliments your outfit, please do not reply "I woke up like this".  Beyonce is a pop-icon but even she didn't wake up like that. A simple "thank you" is fine, and perhaps a return compliment.

During a meeting if you disagree with someone's thought's or ideas please do not reply with any of the following: "Boy Bye!", "Girl Bye", or "Bye Felicia".  Foremost I cannot recall who Felicia is and second, calling adults girl or boy is plain offensive.

If you are trying to give a good example of your leadership skills, please stay away from quoting rapper Rick Ross, although he may feel like he is a Boss, that is in an entirely different capacity -- and is probably going to get you into the bottom of the leadership pile if not totally tossed out.

Taking on more than one task is an admirable quality and most employees who can multitask effectively have longevity in their careers.  However, if asked "Do you think you would like to take this opportunity to..." -- By heavens sake please DO NOT, for whatever it is worth reply "YOLO!" (meaning You Only Live Once) -- This was a term coined by crossover rapper (from Toronto) Drake, in the 2011 song "The Motto".  While I welcome Drake to yell this out whenever and wherever, you should definitely not.

Remember, you can say whatever you want to your friends, but your colleagues, constituents and potential new managers deserve for you to properly code shift into your corporate self. And only Lady Gaga can say "I live halfway between reality and theater at all times. And I was born this way."  

About the Author: Blair Gaines is an impassioned leader and manager who has a great interest in creating a world class workforce.  Blair is working toward her 2nd HRM Degree, and has a passion for writing.  She is a talented speaker and writer, who has a way with words, that paint a picture on a level that can be understood by all.  Follow Blair on Twitter @blairlikely or connect with via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blairgaines