Resume Writing Tips
| Career Planning Tips |
Interview Tips | Your First
Job
The way it was
You've spent approximately the last seventeen years sitting
in a classroom absorbing bits of knowledge. Every now and
then you were tested to see how well you remembered that information.
Flash to the present
Suddenly you are out of the safe haven of the
classroom, where you were tested on schedule, and deadlines
were months away. You are thrust into the reality of your
First Job. Deadlines are "tomorrow, at the latest."
There are no formal exams, but don't ever forget -- you are
being tested; everyday. The results come, not in report cards,
but in performance reviews. Your performance at work impacts
the organization as a whole, your bosses, and even your co-workers.
You are one spoke in the wheel that makes the organization
run.
Some tips to help you succeed
- Always arrive at work on time, if not a
little early. Stick to your lunch hour... and if you are
particularly busy, eat at your desk or come back early
- Dress appropriately. Look around you to see
how others are dressed; especially those who are further
along on your career path. For example, if you work in an
advertising agency and aspire to be an account executive,
don't dress like the art director, whose job allows a more
casual style
- Listen and observe. It is important to listen
and observe before jumping in to suggest changes
- Stay away from office gossip. That is not
to say don't pay attention to what you hear through the
grapevine. That can be helpful. However don't contribute
to it
- Mind your manners. Don't forget what you
learned as a child. Please and thank you should still be
the magic words. Always knock before you enter. Although
barging into your friend's dorm room may have been okay
with him, barging into your supervisor's office is not okay
- Answer the telephone politely, even if the
call is internal
- Find a mentor. Look for someone on your career
path who is willing to take you under her wing
- Don't pretend to know things you don't. However,
do your homework. Learn what you need to know
- Don't be afraid to ask questions. If you
are assigned a project and are not sure how it should be
completed, ask. It's better to ask before the project is
due, than to have it delayed because it was done incorrectly
- Always stick to deadlines. Bosses usually
want projects completed on time. If there is any flexibility,
she will let you know
- Finally, pay close attention to corporate
culture. Learn how things work within your company. Are
relationships formal or friendly? Does everyone arrive early
and stay late? Are lunch hours short or non-existent?
Last updated :
September 1, 2005
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