Teenage employment is important. Developing confidence tops the list followed by a sense of responsibility, contribution, time management, and business networking skills all of which will become essential tools in the years ahead. As an employer (founded in what might be considered “old school” thought), there are eight (8) valuable work habits that we would like for you to take back to school as you leave our workplaces. Adhere to traditional business protocols. Be honest. Be on time. Be dependable. Be safe. Be loyal. Use manners. Dress appropriately. Pay attention to personal hygiene. Do not use profanity. Don’t participate in rumors or gossip around the water cooler.
No ‘texting’ or other cell phone activities while you work. Leave your phone in the car, a locker, a drawer, somewhere other than on your person. Your purpose at work is to make money for your company. In order to accomplish this objective, please provide 100% of your focus to the tasks at hand and during the hours in which you are engaged to do so. Texting your buddies (or family members especially parents) about you personal plans for the evening take you off task and out of focus.
Annotate. You will forget – period. Invest in the only timeless PDA and stylus known to man - the pen and paper. Use it. Get into the habit of writing things down! You will be given assignments, tasks, project details, and more so you need to be ready to act. This action is also a key principal in active listening and instilling a sense of importance in the information you are being given.
Communicate concisely. Let your brain engage in thought before your mouth’s motor skills begin. Rambling or an inability to quickly, efficiently, and thoroughly express yourself makes you the weakest link in the chain. This will also force you into developing better English skills, both written and orally. And when you do communicate, do so with a positive “can do” attitude. If constructive arguments are needed, do this by asking questions.
Show Initiative. Awaiting instructions is the same a being an “order taker.” The world has plenty of this resource, so don’t add to it. Look around and note what needs to be done. “Boss, I noticed that this stack of inventory is out of order. If you can spare me for a moment, I’d like to go re-organize it.” Statements like these certainly sound more professional than, “Boss, what can I do now?”
Develop a sense of community. It’s not all about you. It’s not all about the company. Most companies have philanthropic efforts focused in various areas. Your community is important and you should (with genuine effort) give of your time.
Pay attention to details. Learn to pay attention to details. This also involves follow up. This skill helps you become invaluable to a team.
Be yourself. Most folks have a genuine desire to perform well and provide a meaningful contribution to a work force team. We shall assume that you fall within this group. Be true to these desires and you will gravitate to the most valuable team members within a company.
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