88 / 100
HBCU Careers Magazine
88
Do Your Job to the Best of Your Ability
Always do the best you can do, regardless of the task you are assigned. Anything less will not only be a
disappointment to your employer, but a disappointment to you. Keep in mind that sometimes when you
start a new job you may be assigned tasks that seem trivial or unimportant. Take your tasks seriously,
and do them to the best of your ability. If you demonstrate that you can handle the small tasks, your
manager’s confidence in your abilities will most likely increase, and soon you may find yourself working
on more interesting projects.
Adapt to the Corporate Culture
Companies expect their employees to fit in and accept the corporate culture. It’s up to you to learn
your organization’s style and culture and be willing to adapt to it. Is the dress code “business casual”
or do employees wear suits? Is there a designated lunch time? Are there specific company formats
that are to be used when preparing reports, memos or other written documents? These are just a few
things you will want to consider. You can learn about the corporate culture by familiarizing yourself with
the employee handbook, observing your co-workers’ behavior and asking questions (for examples of
“business casual attire” see pages 80 and 81).
Develop Your Communication Skills
Every job, including technical ones, requires some degree of communication skills. Learn to be a good
listener to ensure you fully understand instructions and to show that you are interested. Demonstrate
patience and sensitivity with others, and avoid public confrontation and complaining. Learn to be tactful
when working on a team, and consider what others on the team have to say and work with them. Above
all, treat people as you would like to be treated. With written work, be sure you’ve proofread it carefully
for content, spelling and grammar before submitting it.
Ge to Know Your Co-workers
Get to know and be known by others in your work environment. Be
professional and courteous at all times, and learn the roles that your
co-workers play within the organization. Learning
who
does what
can help to figure out where
you
fit in the big picture. Furthermore,
you may be asked to work as a part of a team with other co-workers.
If you know your co-workers and have an understanding of their
role withing the organization, it will help you to be a more effective
member of the team.
Project a Positive Attitude
This may sound basic, but it is very important. What is your perception of someone that has a good
attitude versus that of someone that has a bad attitude? Think about it. Most (if not all) would agree
that they prefer to work with someone that has a positive attitude. For better or worse, many times
someone’s perception of you is stronger than the actual facts. Having a negative attitude can cloud your
manager’s view of your ability. You may be competent at your job but do you take an interest in your
work? Do you show enthusiasm? Do you take initiative? Having a positive attitude will not only serve
you well in your first job, but throughout your entire career. Often opportunities for advancement and
leadership roles hinge on your overall attitude.