Professional Conduct & Dress Code

Beta Alpha Psi is a professional organization, and as such, it has professional expectations of its members.  All candidates and members are expected to behave in such a way that brings honor to themselves, our chapter, and our University.  We have every confidence that our students will behave as Auburn men and women should, but believe it is a good thing to emphasize the importance of professional conduct and ethical behavior.

Beta Alpha Psi prohibits the consumption of alcohol products at meetings, functions or any events that are sponsored by, or endorsed by the chapter.  Be aware, however, that individual firms and companies may invite Beta Alpha Psi members to other recruiting events where these kinds of beverages are served.  If you find yourself at a recruiting event where these kinds of drinks are served, we recommend that you decline the drink.  We believe that the best person you can present at a recruiting event is one that has not been affected by alcohol use.

Business Casual Dress

Most of our events throughout the year require business casual dress.  Since many people have questions about what business casual means, we have set a policy for students to observe the dress code.  Keep in mind, Beta Alpha Psi events present an opportunity for you to present yourself to potential employers, so be sure to come to events appropriately dressed.  Remember, you have only one chance to make a good first impression—professional appearance is critical.

Business casual dress is required at all Beta Alpha Psi meetings.  When attending socials not sponsored by Beta Alpha Psi, you should dress in accordance with the business casual dress code as outlined below, unless the invitation specifies casual dress. When in doubt, professional business attire should be worn.

GENERAL

  • All clothing should be conservative in color, pressed, and neat in appearance. Bold colors such as orange, hot pink, etc. should be worn minimally.
  • Clothing should not be revealing in nature.  Undergarments should not be visible.
  • Jewelry should be worn conservatively.  For females, jewelry should be limited and only one pair of earrings should be worn.  Males should not wear earrings, bracelets or necklaces.

SHOES

  • Only wear proper dress shoes; no hiking boots or athletic shoes.  Shoes must be clean and polished.
  • For females, open-toed shoes of a dressy style are acceptable in the spring and summer seasons (March through August).  This does not include flat strappy sandals or flip-flops.
  • Socks and hosiery may be worn when appropriate.

PANTS AND SKIRTS

  • Skirts and dresses should reach knee length; no mini-skirts.
  • Dress pants should be worn when wearing pants.  Belts should be worn when appropriate.
  • Khakis are acceptable but not recommended.  “Cargo Pants” (khakis with outer leg pockets) are not acceptable.
  • Females’ pants should reach an appropriate ankle length; no Capri pants or pants that reach mid-calf.
  • No jeans or denim of any color.  No shorts or skorts.

TOPS

  • Shirts should be neatly tucked.  Do not roll up your sleeves, this is considered relaxed and unappealing.
  • Males should wear shirts with collars.  Golf shirts are acceptable, but considered to be more casual than an oxford shirt.
  • Males should wear undershirts under dress shirts.  Be sure the undershirt is in good condition.
  • No sleeveless shirts of any kind (spaghetti straps, capped sleeves, etc.).
  • No shirts that overly expose the chest (no more than 1 to 2 inches below the collar bone is a good rule of thumb).  This applies to males and females.
  • No t-shirts, flannel shirts, sweatshirts, or athletic shirts.

PERSONAL GROOMING

  • Females should have clean, styled hair. Messy up-dos are not considered professional.
  • Males should be clean-shaven or have neatly groomed facial hair. Regular hair cuts are encouraged.

Professional Dress

Professional dress is required for any interviews, at the Beta Alpha Psi Initiation Ceremony (beginning of the semester), and the Spring Awards Ceremony.  Below are general guidelines. Note that much of the advice for Business Casual dress above still applies.

For males, “professional dress” includes suits with ties and dress shoes (a professionally pressed/starched shirt is suggested).  Particularly with ties, avoid fashion extremes—a conservative good quality silk tie is best.

For females, “professional dress” includes conservative/professional pantsuits with jackets, conservative/professional dresses, or conservative/professional suits with matching jacket and skirt.