Friday, August 19, 2011

90+ Days Later . . . Now what?!

The first three months of my new job have gone very well. I have worked on several major projects including my current assignment, publicizing our restaurants’ participation in Las Vegas Restaurant Week. I successfully pitched new menu items for Japonais and had several journalists experience the restaurant and write awesome reviews. Since completing my probationary period, my first thought was, now what? I’ve been performing well. Now what? The first ninety days were exciting. How can I avoid getting bored on the job? How do I keep making a great impression?

I decided to do some research on Google and a few other sites. Between advice from my mentors, on the job experience and the a few internet articles, I compiled my own mini survival list.

Blackberries and Meetings don’t mix
It’s obvious that when you’re in a meeting your phone should not be a distraction. When I started working, I noticed that all of my colleagues brought their blackberries to meetings. In fact we’re expected to bring them. Each were placed face up so any incoming email could be seen. Our workday is based on deadlines so it’s important to keep an eye on our phones. However, don’t touch your phone too much because it gives the impression that you’re not paying attention. I learned this the hard way. Although I did not reply to any emails or take any calls, the mere fact that I placed my hand on my phone caused a few associates to give me a disapproving stare.

Don’t ignore your co-workers
Sure you’re tired of hearing about your co-workers drama filled relationship. In fact, everyone in the office is over it. As much as it hurts, you must listen or at least show them that you’re paying attention. Letting your eyes swerve to your computer screen can cause your co-worker to resent you in the long run. It’s important not to burn bridges.

You brought that for lunch . . . seriously?
This may seem silly but we are all guilty of it. If you’re going to eat in the office, do not bring food that is going to have your unsuspecting co-workers gagging from the smell. The hoagie with onions may have seemed like a great idea. However, onions can smell like a big armpit. What you’re enjoying and what your co-workers smell is very different. Be considerate.


No matter how stupid you think it is . . . you have to participate

Every company offers fun department activities and contests to build moral and strengthen skills. Some of these things may even seem very silly. Personally, I believe some of these contests are designed to create more work. It doesn’t matter. Suck it up and participate.

Taken individually some of these infractions seem minor. However, it is important to be mindful of your behavior in the work place. After all, you would not want any of the above to be the reason you’re not considered for a promotion.

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