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As an intern (or office newbie) it’s crucial to make an immediate impact. Not only because you want to look the part but also for networking reasons, as you want to make sure you leave a good lasting impression for possible work in the future. And so I’ve put together a list of Do’s and Don’ts or golden rules if you like. These may at first come across as humorous but they are salient points which if followed will ensure that you aren’t remembered for all the wrong reasons.

1) Don’t be late

Punctuality is king, tardiness is a bitch, every now and then circumstances beyond our control will render us late. Control these circumstances, buy shares in TFL and if need be lease a magic carpet.

2) Don’t take your job too seriously

In 2008/9 415,000 people suffered work related stress at a level that they believed was making them ill. Whilst it is important to embody your role, both you and your employer have a duty of care to YOU. If you are at any point unable to handle the stress from a particular task or tasks, then say something.

3) Don’t be a quitter

You need to have “stickability” mild stress is to be expected, don’t give up at the first hurdle. Once you start on a task ensure you do everything under the sun to finish it.

4) Don’t do what I did

What did I do…something you shouldn’t but you’re going to have to wait till the end to find out…I can’t believe I’m about to expose myself like this.

5) Don’t take one sick day off

Taking one sick day off gives the impression of being either a faker or a wimp, make sure you’re off for at least two days. This is primary school type stuff. Furthermore avoid being sick on a Monday.

6) Don’t come in with a hangover

I’ve just advised that you steer clear of taking single days off, now I’m saying don’t come in with a hang over, if your body is inefficient at getting rid of alcohol then don’t drink during the week.

7) Don’t be afraid to ask

As an intern or newbie you’re not expected to know everything about everything, in fact things will be quite the opposite, there will be a fair bit of on the job training so DO ASK QUESTIONS!

8) Don’t sport garish hair styles

Most offices have a Dress Code in which they will make mention of their expectations for your hair also, there’ll be more on this later on in part II, but avoid outlandish hair styles. They do not give off the “right impression”.

9) Don’t be God

In our heads we always think we are right (till proven wrong but even then it’s hard to admit) however in the office and especially for temporary members of staff, life can be a lot easier if you allow others to think they are right. I’m not saying agree with everything everyone says, No. Just give off an air of agreeability.

10) Don’t do what I did

I know I said I’d tell you what I did, but I’m not quite ready yet, trust me, it’s that bad! However I promise to include it in Office Etiquette: Do’s & Don’ts Part 2.

Buenos Noches
T King

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This entry was posted on Friday, March 19th, 2010 at 8:29 am and is filed under Freelance Beginnings. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.