1-800-DOWLING Search      Contact Us      Employment Opportunities      Find Us  
Upcoming Info Sessions, Workshops & Open Houses
  Career Services Links
    Co-op/Internships
    Events
    Education
    Find a Mentor
    For Employers
    International Students
    What Can I Do With My Major
    Workshops
    Full-Time & Part-Time Jobs
    Alumni
    Post Your Resume
    Job Development
Home > Prospective Students > Career Services
Career Services
Job Success Tips

As you begin your new job, whether it be your first professional position out of college, or a strategic job change, there are many factors than can help "make or break you" in your new position. Remember you only get one chance to make a first impression, so make it a good one! Here are some do's and don'ts to help get you started.

DO:
  • Ask questions, it's always better to do things correctly the first time
  • Smile and be friendly, you will be more approachable and have an easier time getting to know your new colleagues
  • Learn as much as you can about the organizations, their rules and their goals
  • Listen, listen, listen!
  • Keep a positive attitude and an open mind
  • Volunteer for projects and committees that will make you and your work visible and build your skills
  • Arrive early
  • Dress for success, when selecting work attire, always dress for the position you would like to be in
  • Look for a mentor, someone in a position that you aspire to be in that can provide guidance and support
  • Keep your personal life and problems at home

DON'T:
  • Complain about your previous colleagues, supervisor or job
  • Gossip
  • Rush to leave when the day is over
  • Keep your cell phone on at work
  • Use profanity, crude language or slang
  • Don't socialize excessively (to the point where it disrupts productivity)
  • Slack off after you get comfortable, always look at ways to improve your skills and excel if you want to be successful in any organization

References:

"Build for the Future During your First Year on the Job". http://www.jobweb.com

"First 90 Days: Plan for New Job Success". http://www.aarp.org

"From the College Campus to the Corporate Climate". http://careerplanning.about.com/cs/firstjob/a/post_grad.htm

"New Job, New Boss: A First-Time Employee's Survival Guide". http://www.jobweb.com

"The Fine Art of "Cube-tiquette". http://www.jobweb.com

"Starting a New Job". http://careerplanning.about.com/cs/firstjob/a/new_job_3.htm

"What you need to Succeed in the Workplace". http://www.jobweb.com
150 IDLE HOUR BLVD. OAKDALE, NY 11769 © 2003-2008 DOWLING COLLEGE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.