Job Success Factors

Once you've made the big transition from job searching to job landing, job success is the next priority.

But first, you'll need to know and use specific skills to make and sustain the right first impression from day one. If you haven't secured that job yet, practice these skills prior to starting a new position. . You only get one chance to make the right first impression.

This is not a complete list of pointers. It is a good idea to check with your supervisor about what is most important. Employers say more people lose their job because they don't use good work habits, not because they are unable to do the job.

The following list of suggestions is based on feedback from a majority of surveyed employers:

• A positive attitude is one of the most important factors to achieve job success. Don't carry negative feelings into your new workplace. Resolve them elsewhere.
• Always be on time. How long will it take to get to work? Allow a few extra minutes for traffic problems or getting children to day care.

• Be reliable and dependable to win the trust and respect of your new employer.
• Practice good attendance and promptness. If you are going to be unavoidably late or out sick, ask your supervisor what the proper method of informing him or her is.
• Know and follow all office rules, policies and procedures. However dry, read and be familiar with employee manuals.
• Listen and learn. Be open to new ways of doing things, even if you were taught differently in school or on a different job.
• Don't be quick to find fault, criticize or complain until you can prove you can do something a better way.
• Learn all you can about the job you were hired to do before thinking about moving up.

• Meet and exceed your employer's expectations.

When you need to talk with your supervisor, find out when a good time to meet would be.

Take advantage of performance reviews. Learn from them. Ask how you can improve. Show results or job-related classes you have taken. Most supervisors appreciate employees who are concerned with performance and want to improve. Your job success is also their success.

• Be a team player. Be willing to help. Know the goals of your job and how your job fits into the overall organization.

• Keep your sense of humor.

• Ask for help when you need it — you're not expected to be an expert your first week. If you make a mistake, let your supervisor know immediately, and find out how you can fix it.

• Follow the proper chain of command. Discuss items with your supervisor first.

Prior to starting the job, have all of your appointments with doctors, dentists, etc., out of the way. Have your transportation and day care lined up so you don't immediately have to take off time. Establish plans for day care and transportation emergencies.

• Be willing to learn new skills. Keep a record of classes you are taking that relate to the job. Review this with your supervisor at an appropriate time.

• Take time to make new friends. Find positive and upbeat co-workers. Avoid negative, critical and gossipy people.

• Be clean and well groomed. Wear job-appropriate clothes. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes.

• Create the image. Dress for the job you want next.

• Keep your personal life and problems at home. Don't use the employer's equipment and time to do personal things like make personal phone calls, use the copy machine, or resolve your personal problems. If you are having trouble settling personal problems, seek counseling, support groups, or employee assistance programs.

• Volunteer for projects and committees if your work is completed and your supervisor approves.

• Be patient with yourself and your employer. It takes time to get used to, learn and like a new job.

Don't express your opinions, biases or prejudices about others at work.

Diversity is a priority in the workplace. Accept criticism as a constructive tool. Don't become defensive or take criticism personally. Thank the person for his or her input. Consider changing, but only if it is warranted. If you are unsure how to handle the situation, check with your supervisor.

• Try to always be friendly to everyone. Go the extra mile. This creates goodwill with employers, co-workers and customers.

• Notice who your boss relies on, and model yourself after them.

• Find a mentor — someone who knows the company and the job well enough to coach you and show you the ropes.

• Realize playing politics or power games could be dangerous and backfire.

• Treat everyone with courtesy and respect. Remember, as you climb the career ladder, you may meet the same people on your way down the ladder.

• Try to keep your emotions under control. The office is not the place to express private opinions or feelings.

• Show appreciation. Let your supervisor know you are grateful for his or her training, support, input and feedback.

• Strive to be positively recognized. Be friendly and helpful to everyone at all levels.

For more information buy

The Etiquette Advantage in Business by Peggy Post and Peter Post

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