Workplace Etiquette: Differing Perspectives from Kelly Cutrone and Bozoma Saint John
Two industry veterans debate modern office norms, from late-night emails to interview attire.
1Evolving Workplace Norms
Vogue’s column Oh, Behave! explores modern professional etiquette through the lens of two distinct leadership styles. Kelly Cutrone, a fashion industry veteran, emphasizes traditional discipline and hierarchy. Conversely, Bozoma Saint John, a former executive at Apple and Netflix, advocates for a more flexible, human-centric approach to office dynamics and daily interactions.
2Interview Preparation Tactics
The experts disagree on bringing coffee to interviews. Cutrone views it as unprofessional and messy, while Saint John suggests it is acceptable if offered to the interviewer first. Both agree that arriving twenty minutes early is presumptuous, recommending a five-minute arrival window to respect the interviewer’s busy schedule and office flow.
3Professional Wardrobe Choices
Regarding luxury items like Birkin bags, Cutrone warns against them as a potential sign of poor taste or arrogance in entry-level roles. Saint John suggests context matters, noting that luxury environments might appreciate the aesthetic. Both agree that shorts are generally inappropriate unless the specific industry culture explicitly permits such casual attire.
4Communication and Embellishment
Cutrone views resume embellishment as fraudulent, citing the ease of modern fact-checking. Saint John agrees on avoiding lies but encourages using strong verbs and adjectives to highlight achievements. Regarding thank-you notes, Cutrone prefers handwritten gestures for their personal touch, while Saint John argues that emails are sufficient in fast-paced tech industries.
5Managing Office Emotions
Crying at one's desk is discouraged by both experts. Cutrone advises removing oneself to a private space like a stairwell to maintain professional boundaries. Saint John distinguishes between frustration-based tears, which should be private, and passion-based tears, which she believes can be acceptable if they reflect genuine investment in the work.
6Work-Life Balance Realities
Cutrone rejects the concept of work-life balance, viewing it as a red flag in high-pressure industries like fashion or PR. She expects total commitment. Saint John offers a more balanced view, suggesting that employees can leave before their boss if expectations regarding arrival and departure times are clearly communicated and mutually understood.
7Handling Personal Errands
Using office resources for personal tasks is strictly discouraged. Cutrone insists employees buy their own printers, while Saint John warns against the risks of printing sensitive personal information on company hardware. Both emphasize that professional boundaries are essential to maintaining a focused environment and avoiding potential security or privacy mishaps at work.
8The Late-Night Email
Responding to emails at 11 p.m. is a point of contention. Cutrone notes that bosses observe who responds, implying it signals dedication. Saint John suggests responding only if the request is urgent for the next morning. Both agree that clear communication from leadership regarding deadlines helps prevent unnecessary stress for their employees.
9Digital Communication Etiquette
The use of emojis like the thumbs-up is accepted by both, though Saint John warns against unprofessional symbols. Regarding the phrase per my last email, both agree it is aggressive. Cutrone finds it unacceptable from subordinates, while Saint John argues the phrase should be removed from professional vocabulary entirely for better collaboration.
10AI and Professionalism
The use of ChatGPT for drafting emails draws sharp criticism from Cutrone, who views it as a waste of professional talent and education. Saint John takes a more pragmatic stance, acknowledging its efficiency but emphasizing that users must understand the context and intent behind every message sent to ensure quality and accuracy.
11Personal Branding Online
Posting promotions on LinkedIn is encouraged by Saint John, who believes in self-celebration to gain recognition. Cutrone agrees for significant career milestones but discourages posting minor updates. Both experts emphasize that while personal branding is valuable, it must be balanced with the reality of the specific industry and the company's internal culture.
12Defining Professional Success
Ultimately, the debate highlights that workplace etiquette is not static. Cutrone prioritizes survival and brand genetics, while Saint John advocates for personal expression and diversity. Success depends on understanding the specific demands of your industry, as what is considered polite in tech may be viewed as unprofessional in high-fashion PR circles.