For a flourishing first job

By Ayesha Inoon

A new job is a milestone in anyone's life. But that very first job, the one you get soon after school or university – that's the one that will make a lasting impression on the rest of your working career. No matter what the job is – a part-time one to help fund your studies, or an internship that is the gateway to your future profession – many valuable lessons are learned, skills acquired, ethics instilled and experiences gained during this first job that will affect any future jobs you may hold.

"Your first job is your introduction to the real world," says Lahiru Fernando, a General Manager in a Multinational Company, who started off as a part-time waiter at a fast food restaurant. "Until then all your knowledge is limited to theory – now you will find that in practical life things are different." He adds that he learnt many things at his first job, which still help him in his work today. "Teamwork, responsibility, dealing with different kinds of people – it was not all a bed of roses," he reflects. "But I learnt that commitment gives results, and that's what I try to instil in my new employees all the time."

The transition from being a student to an employee is not an easy one to make. The rules are stricter, the responsibilities greater. You no longer work alone, but are now part of a team – and as such, your actions will affect others.

It takes time to adjust to a new job, colleagues and the nature of your work, and also to build relationships with those you work for, and with. In the meantime, there are certain things you can do to make sure your first job is a success.

Be on time
Work out by what time you should leave home to arrive at work on time, and stick to that schedule. Leave work, preferably a little later. Come back from lunch on time. Some work places do not have such rigorous schedules, but until you work out the unwritten rules, stick to the agenda.

Introduce yourself
Don't wait for your co-workers to come to you. Introduce yourself, and try to remember the names of people you've been introduced to. Do not use first names with superiors until you find out if it's okay to do so.

Be clear about your responsibilities
Make sure you understand what you have to do, and don't be afraid to ask questions, get feedback and discuss problems. Meet your boss periodically to find out how you're doing, and to get suggestions for improvement. If you are a student, be certain to make it clear at the very outset that you will need time off for your exams, etc. Set your work schedule in such a way that it won't have a negative impact on your studies.

Understand the work culture
A work culture is the combination of behaviours and rules that run the company, organisation or department. It takes time to learn the accepted ways of a workplace. Find out things like answering and returning phone calls, taking messages and who is responsible for what. Understand that things are rarely confidential within a company – watch what you say, and to whom.

Dress right
Especially in those first crucial days. Remember that those who do not know you will initially form their impressions based on your appearance. If there is a dress code, follow it. Good grooming and hygiene contribute a great deal towards a pleasant demeanour.

Expect to do some tedious tasks
However interesting your job seems initially, there are sure to be a few boring aspects. Understand that you've taken on the whole package, and give the same attention that you would give to other tasks.

Don't undervalue subordinates
Treat each and every person in the workplace with respect. Don't look down on someone with less education or status – there may be many things you can learn from them.

Learn to take criticism
As a student you may have not had to face strong criticism. However, there is sure to be some negative feedback at some point in your first job. Try not to take it personally, and understand the nature of the criticism. Express your willingness to improve.

Do more than what's expected
Every job is worth your best effort, and the way you perform at your first job might make or break your entire career.
Establish an early reputation as a hard worker. Look for additional responsibilities. Go after challenges. And continue to develop your skills.

First jobs are passages from which you will pass onto greater things. They teach us many precious lessons which may not be apparent at the time, but which you may look back on years later and appreciate. Learn as much as you can, and enjoy the experience – you've just stepped on the first rung of your ladder of success!