The Rule Book For Your First Job

With all the excitement and nervousness that come with our first jobs, there are also a few little unspoken rules. Navigating any new experience is tough, so to save you from being caught off guard when it comes down to business, use this article as your guide.

1. Always make yourself look busy

Now this is one I defs could’ve heard before my first shift in hospo. Tbh if my Mum didn’t see me standing around and eating a piece of pizza on my first ever night of work I’m sure it would’ve taken me a bit longer to figure out. Whether you’re whipping out the rag to wipe some tables or steaming some clothes depending on whether you’re working hospo or retail. But either way, there is an unspoken list of little things which are a go-to when times are quiet.

2. Turn up 5 minutes before your shift

This is a major safety net for making it to work on time. I’m not sure if it’s just me, but I feel like it’s just a known thing that bosses like to see people turning up to work at least a few mins early. This allows you time to settle in, put your stuff away, and say your greetings before kicking off that shift. It’s a super simple way of showing that you are a keen and dedicated worker which are two qualities that employers love to see in young staff.

3. Never just clock off

Might be a hot take, but I was always so unsure about the etiquette when it comes to clocking off. The awkward 5 minutes before your shift ends just dwelling on how you are going to make your exit. I realised most of the time the person supervising the shift will tell you when you can go home, and if they don’t, give it 5 minutes. After that 5 minutes, you’re in the clear to say, “Hey is it all good for me to clock off now or would you like me to stay a little longer?”. This is the perfect way to be professional as well as indicating you’re happy to stay longer and not just waiting around to leave (even though I know you most likely are).

4. Be a team player

As your first job people aren’t going to expect you to be an a-game, superstar worker straight off the bat (that’ll come after you read this article). But having the quality of being a team player will help you to climb the ranks and help you gain the respect of the other employees. Being willing to help out others in their area of work will not only expand your horizons and capabilities within the workplace but also allow you to gain connections and friendships with the other workers. Help out others and hype up their achievements, they will appreciate this and hopefully, in turn, do the same for you.

5. Be honest and proactive:

Another quality that employers love to see is honesty. Mistake are always an opportunity to grow, but you won’t ever learn from them if you don’t come clean when you make them. People respect honesty, and honestly if you do something wrong it’s much better coming clean about it rather than trying to cover your tracks.This will allow you to be proactive and make changes going forward.

Remember that your first job isn’t the be all or end all. The most important thing is to try your best and have a bit of fun with it. Use this as a great opportunity to get your foot into the working world. A lot of the time, your first job teaches you things that you will take with you for the rest of your career – no matter what type of field you work in.