The Career Center at Santa Clara University

Students » Find a Job » 13 Tips for Success

13 Tips for Job Success

Congratulations on landing your job! In order to maximize your contribution to your new organization and to continue to develop your skills and explore your interests, you need to carefully consider your transition into your new role. Below are tips to consider for success in your new job. For an expanded version, click on the Print icon above.

Be reliable
- Arrive at work on time and review the expected work schedule with your supervisor.
- If you are sick or stuck in traffic, be sure to call.
- Prepare for meetings, respond to correspondence in a timely manner, and practice open communication with your colleagues.
Set realistic goals and expectations
- What are your hopes for your professional development?
- What projects are expected of you?
- Within the first weeks of your job, be sure to establish agreed-upon goals and expectations with your supervisor, and set deadlines.
Develop strong interpersonal communication skills
- Practice active listening with your colleagues.
- Ask questions and invite assistance.
- Use e-mail wisely. Is your e-mail short and to the point? Is your e-mail vocabulary different from Instant Messaging and intelligible to the recipient?
- Avoid sharing sensitive information by e-mail.
- Be aware of times in which a direct phone conversation would be more appropriate.
- Always proofread your written work.
Take the initiative
- Volunteer for new projects with enthusiasm.
- Keep an eye out for interdepartmental projects or teams that will connect you with different departments and people.
- Learn everything you can about the organization by reading e-mail correspondence, studying the organizational chart, and asking questions.
- Find out whether the organization has a mission statement and where you can access it.
Understand your Human Resources benefits
- When choosing a medical plan, consider your needs, your flexibility, and the plan's services and price.
- When choosing a disability plan, consider the differences between short-term and long-term disability.
- Meet with Human Resources representative within your first few weeks to review the packages.
Learn the office procedures and practices
- Consult the company's training manuals.
- Is there an "open-door policy?" If not, ask what the appropriate process is for handling closed doors when you need to get someone's attention.
- Fill the copy machine when it is empty and restock supplies.
Learn the office culture
- Observe your organization's dynamics and appropriate etiquette.
- Always introduce yourself when you answer the phone and practice friendly and professional customer service skills.
- When out of the office, be sure to update your voicemail.
- What is the organization's policy for attire?
- Watch for unstated assumptions in the workplace. Who are the power-brokers? How are decisions made?
Find a mentor
- Find out whether your organization offers a formal mentorship program.
- Mentors not affiliated with your work can also provide a broader view of your industry and areas of interest.
Network
- Learn the names of those outside your department.
- Seek out people outside of your organization who work in similar industries or positions.
- Use SCU's InCircle to network with alumni who have similar professional or personal interests.
Seek out professional development opportunities
- Ask your supervisor about opportunities for professional development.
- Join professional associations related to your field.
- Take classes, attend conferences, and consider ways to present your work through publications or at conferences.
Update records
- Do not wait for your next job search to update your resume or your portfolio of professional work.
- By keeping your resume current, you will have less difficulty remembering your achievements.
Maintain balance
- Take time for yourself.
- Develop your hobbies and get involved in your community.
- Take advantage of community service programs your organization may offer.
- Be sure to keep room in your life for friends and family.
Reflect
- Reflection allows you to grow in awareness around your values, interests, talents, and areas needing development.
- Self-awareness can provide meaning to your experiences, direction for your future, and insight into your vocation.