Graduation time is here and many graduates will be heading off to further their education/training, or starting their working careers. For those entering the “work environment’ here are ten keys to success:

1. Remember, your boss is your primary customer. Having clear job expectations is necessary, and meeting those expectations is job #1.
2. The more you learn about the job and the organization the better your performance. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about company history, policies, procedures, and work rules.
3. As a new employee, you are there to work. You will rely upon others and others will reply upon you. You will be making the change from ‘me to we’ to get the job done.
4. Be prepared to listen and learn. You are not expected to walk in and be able to do everything just right. Follow the adage, ‘you have two ears, two eyes, and one mouth-use them proportionately’.
5. At breaks and lunch, try to never eat alone. Getting to know your coworkers is important. Don’t underestimate the value of listening and talking with others. Texting can come later.
6. First impressions are important. If there is a dress code, follow it. If no guidelines are available, it is better to over dress. If in doubt, dress closer to what the boss wears-this will be safer.
7. As you meet many people on the new job, you will find a lot of diversity of opinion and in some cases, attitude. Do not be influenced by ‘bad attitudes’. Having a positive, can do attitude, will serve you well with others, and the boss.
8. The boss will look for flexibility, responsiveness, adaptability, reliability, and the ability to get stuff done. Each of these traits should be seen as opportunities by you. The more you display these traits, the more valuable you become.
9. You will make mistakes. Those who do nothing are those who make no mistakes. Learn from your mistakes and move on. Often mistakes are made because of lack of training or job clarification. Asking for help in this situation is no weakness. It is an attribute.
10. And last, and most important, treat that new job as the most important task at hand. Strive to be the very best at whatever the assignment is. Being the best will generate exceptional results, and those results will be recognized by coworkers and that primary customer.

Starting a new job can be seen as daunting and sometimes uncomfortable. By following these 10 keys to success you will be better prepared as you enter the workforce. And best of luck to you!for a great future!

Russell J. Bunio, author of The Graduate Handbook, You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know, has recently been inducted into the West Virginia University School of Business & Economics Roll of Distinguished Alumni. He also serves on the School’s Board of Advisors for Supply Chain Management. His books are available at…The Country Store (Stanwood, WA), The Camano Island Marketplace, and the Tyee Store. They are also available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Trafford Publishing. For a signed copy, email: russell@russellbunio.com