The Importance of Professionalism: Showing Up and Communicating Clearly with GCMC

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The Graduate Career Management Center (GCMC) is committed to supporting your career growth through professionalism and clear communication. Timely, respectful communication builds reliability, reflects workplace expectations, and ensures fair access to services.


Every GCMC career coaching appointment is an opportunity for success, so learning to communicate your needs clearly now will help you both at GCMC and in your future career.


How to Contact GCMC:

Email: zicklin.gcmc@baruch.cuny.edu

Phone: (646) 312-1330


How to communicate effectively with GCMC for better support


  • Cancel or Reschedule Coaching Appointments Promptly – If you can’t attend your coaching appointment, let us know as early as possible so another student can benefit from the time slot.

  • Be Clear and Specific in Emails—Always include your full name, EMPLID, event or appointment details, and your specific request.

  • Request Accommodations in Advance—For disability-related accommodations, please email zicklin.gcmc@baruch.cuny.edu at least one week before the scheduled event, workshop, or program so we can make the proper arrangements.

  • Follow Professional Email Etiquette – Use a clear subject line, professional greetings, and a polite closing.

  • Notify Us if You’ll Be Late—If you know you may arrive late, let us know in advance. This helps us manage our schedule and continue to support you effectively.


Respecting Opportunities: The Importance of Notifying GCMC


Showing up or communicating when you cannot attend a coaching appointment or an event with a no-show policy is an important part of being professional. When you register for a GCMC appointment, workshop, or event, you are reserving a spot that could otherwise support another student. By letting us know if your plans change, you help ensure that opportunities are shared fairly and that we can support all students effectively. Responsible communication is not just polite; it reflects your commitment to a respectful and professional community.


Here’s why it matters:

  • No-shows and last-minute cancellations waste valuable time and may limit your ability to book future sessions.

  • Running late without notice disrupts schedules and reduces the quality of support you receive.

  • Poor communication signals unreliability, which can affect how others view your professionalism.


These habits extend beyond GCMC. In the workplace, failing to show up or communicate responsibly can damage your reputation, cost you valuable opportunities, and hinder your long-term career growth. Developing reliable and respectful communication practices now prepares you to meet the expectations of employers and colleagues. It is also important to take accountability in your communication by acknowledging mistakes, following through on commitments, and being mindful of scheduled events.


Taking Accountability in your communication with GCMC


Understand that showing up and communicating when you cannot attend are equally important parts of professionalism. Being accountable in your communication with the GCMC means taking ownership of your actions and showing respect for others’ time and effort.


Taking accountability in your communication is a key part of professionalism for both now and throughout your future career.


What does accountability look like?

  • Cancel or reschedule in advance when you cannot attend an appointment, event, or interview.

  • Inform us if you’re running late; even a brief message helps us adjust and continue supporting you effectively.

  • Acknowledge the impact of missed appointments on your Handshake account: if you miss an appointment without notifying us, your Handshake account may be temporarily blocked. Missing two coaching appointments or events with a no-show policy without cancellation will require you to submit an appeal to book again and may result in suspension of your GCMC privileges.

  • Communicate clearly and respectfully, especially when requesting support or accommodation.

  • Follow through on commitments; if you book time with us, show up prepared and engaged.


GCMC 101: Communication Dos and Don’ts


Do

Don’t

Keep messages simple and professional: “I’m dealing with a personal emergency and can’t attend.”

Overshare personal details

Always acknowledge the inconvenience: “I apologize for the short notice and appreciate your understanding.”

Skip an apology

Write complete, respectful messages showing consideration for others’ time.

Send vague or one-word messages

Be honest and clear; transparency builds trust and professionalism

Don’t lie

Ask Direct Questions: If you need specific information, ask direct questions to get precise answers.

Don’t assume we know the full context; provide enough background so your question is clear.


Final Thoughts: At the GCMC, your success matters. Professionalism is a two-way street; how you communicate is just as important as what you communicate.


Cancellations must be made through Handshake or By Email


All cancellations must be made through Handshake or by email to ensure timely processing. If you experience issues with Handshake, please email GCMC at zicklin.gcmc@baruch.cuny.edu to notify us:

  • Provide At Least 24 Hours’ Notice - If you know in advance that you cannot attend your coaching appointment or event with a no-show policy, please notify your advisor, the organizer, or contact GCMC at least one full business day ahead. This allows us to offer your appointment slot to another student.

  • Late Arrival Policy - While policies may vary, the standard is that if you are more than 10 minutes late, your appointment may be marked as a no-show and will need to be rescheduled.

  • Virtual Drop-in Hours - Available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 4:00 – 5:00 PM for Zicklin MBA/MS students and alumni — no appointment needed.

  • In-Person Visits - If you prefer to meet in person, you can call GCMC at (646) 312-1330 on the day of your visit to check the  availability of the coaching team..

  • No-Show Policy - If you miss a coaching appointment or event with a no-show policy without notifying us in advance, your Handshake account may be temporarily blocked. Accumulating two no-shows regardless of appointment type will require you to submit an appeal before booking future appointments and may lead to a suspension of GCMC privileges.


Professional Email Templates for Communicating with GCMC Services


One-on-One Career Coaching Sessions

In-Person Bootcamps / Networking Events with No-show Policies

Communication Expectations: On-campus Interviews, Office Hours, Interviews, etc.

Drop-In Hours and Hot Topics

LinkedIn Headshot Appointments

Accommodation Requests

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