Professionalism in Your New Career After College
As You Begin Your New Career
- Be enthusiastic and positive!
- Take the time to meet others and learn about the organization.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions! Listen and learn.
Make a Good Impression with Your Employer and Coworkers
- Be polite and professional to everyone.
- Minimize involvement in office gossip and politics.
- Express your emotions appropriately. Always keep your cool.
- Observe proper business etiquette and office protocol at all times including dress codes, dating policy, use of office materials, etc.
- Have good attendance, and be punctual.
Focus on your Performance
- If you have completed tasks, look or ask for more things to do.
- Limit your personal business at the office.
- Build upon your strengths, develop new skills, and complement your weaknesses.
- Learn how to work with different people.
- Develop a work plan with your supervisor. Set up a time to meet for regular evaluations.
- Be willing to participate and try new projects, but don't overstep your authority.
- Be receptive to feedback.
Build a Solid Reputation
- Keep your promises and meet deadlines.
- Take responsibility for your actions. If you make a mistake admit it, learn from it, and move on.
- Develop a reputation for courtesy, loyalty, honesty, and fairness.
- Show initiative - be willing to do more than is asked of you.
- If you have developed these skills through previous work experience and internships, you will be prepared!
