First Job: Dos and Don'ts

Use these tips to help you develop a professional attitude and make a good impression.

Punctuality

• DO arrive to work on time. If you know you are going to be late, call and let your supervisor know.
• DO submit projects by deadlines or before. Missing an important deadline may mean you will not be trusted with additional responsibility in the future.

Appearance

• DO make sure that your appearance fits the environment. Ask about the dress code and observe what your co-workers are wearing.
• DON’T wear clothes or accessories that draw too much attention to themselves. Avoid excessive amounts of cologne/perfume and jewelry that is distracting.

Communication

• DO use proper written and spoken language.
• DO have a co-worker proofread particularly important documents for you.

Telephone Etiquette

• DO use a greeting and identify yourself.
• DO keep personal calls brief and infrequent. Time them for your breaks.
• DON’T hover outside a co-worker’s office or cubicle. Come back later, send an e-mail or leave a voicemail.

Internet Etiquette

• DO proofread and spell-check before you send an e-mail. Have you included all attachments? Are you sending to the correct party?
• DON’T send e-mail messages that include anything you would not want anyone else to read. Objectionable language should not be included in any e-mails that you send or forward.
• DON’T abuse your access to the Internet. Limit personal web surfing.

Keep the Company in Mind

• DO maintain a positive attitude at work. Your demeanor reflects on both you and your company.
• DON’T abuse company resources. The fax machine, printer and office supplies are for office use only.