The transition from college to career can be traumatic; however, remembering a few basic principles will make the task much simpler. Remember that it is no longer acceptable to do "C" or even "B" work, every assignment you complete must be "A+" material. Focus, concentrate, and take a few tips:
- Strive for perfection in everything you do
- Volunteer to do anything and everything
- Make yourself indispensable
- Dress for the position you want, not the position you have
- Take advantage of education training and opportunities
- Adapt to your surroundings
- Always appear confident, but never arrogant
- Arrive early, leave late
- Stay true to your word
- Get a life outside the office
On the phone
- Do not put people on speaker phone
- Always identify yourself and your company
- Always get the name of the person you are speaking with
- Always be nice to the secretary
- Immediately write down what you will do and when you will contact the person again
With Clients
- Do what you say you will do
- Be honest and straight-forward
- Call back promptly
- Be respectful of their time
- Be flexible
Time Management
- Set priorities daily, weekly and monthly
- Delegate whenever possible
- Keep a things-to-do list
- Plan and control interruptions
- Sometimes saying "no" is okay
- Think and plan ahead
- Confirm all meetings and appointments
Communication
- Shake hands firmly
- Maintain eye contact
- Speak clearly and succinctly
Public Speaking
- Practice, practice, practice
- Pause before beginning and take a deep breath
- Use notes
- Use hand gestures
- When making an important statement, change your pace and enunciate