3.1+Being+Professional+(1) (edited) (edited)

4. Career Fundamentals

  • Objectives:
    • Present a professional look, attitude, and work style.
    • Communicate effectively.
    • Be a great team member.

4.2 A Place for You in Retail

  • Objectives:
    • Understand how completing the RISE Up Retail Industry Fundamentals course can assist in finding a retail job.
    • Set goals to achieve employment results.
    • Explore entry-level retail jobs.
    • Use an online job application system.
    • Prepare for and succeed in interviews.
    • Understand entry-level job to career paths in the retail industry.
    • Learn how additional NRF credentials can assist in finding a retail job and building a career.

RISE Up and Retail Industry

  • The National Retail Federation (NRF) Foundation, in partnership with retailers and non-profit organizations, developed this program to help people get skills needed for retail jobs.
  • Course participants gain knowledge/skills and complete an exam for a credential used during job applications.
  • Earning the credential:
    • Builds confidence.
    • Demonstrates fundamental skills across the country.
    • Helps you stand out when applying.
    • Launches your retail career.
  • Retail industry employers helped identify skills for credential requirements and seek candidates possessing them.
  • Completing the course and exam prepares you for entry-level positions.

Job Goals and Expectations

  • Job satisfaction increases when a job matches interests, skills, and life goals.
  • Considerations:
    • What type of retail work would I most enjoy?
    • What types of products/services are most interesting?
    • What type of environment would I like to work in?
    • What hours would I like to work?
    • What kind of company culture is important to me?
  • These considerations help narrow focus to the best jobs.
  • Goals will likely change resulting from new experiences, successes and challenges.
  • Updating goals to reflect career growth keeps momentum moving in the chosen direction.

Exploring Entry-Level Retail Jobs

  • Retail is thriving because of ecommerce and physical store channels.
  • Finding a retail job starts with a job description.
  • A job description includes:
    • The company name.
    • Title of the job.
    • Purpose of the position.
    • Duties.
    • Responsibilities.
    • Scope.
    • Position qualifications/requirements.
    • Supervisor title.
    • Working conditions.
  • Job descriptions can be general or specific.
  • Job expectations provide detail into duties and responsibilities, such as productivity or quality guidelines.
  • They define what you need to accomplish to be successful and are usually received after hire.
  • It is important to understand job expectations, how to accomplish them and expected performance levels.

Types of Entry-Level Retail Jobs

  • There are a variety of entry-level positions to explore, which generally do not require prior experience:
    • Contact center customer service representative.
    • Cashier.
    • Distribution center roles.
    • Food service roles.
    • Loss prevention roles.
    • Operations positions: receiving, stocking, backroom, and pricing.
    • Perishable grocery entry-level roles in the areas of meat, seafood, produce, deli, bakery, or floral.
    • Sales associate.
    • Specialty sales roles.
  • Jobs with the same title can differ by company.
  • The best way to determine the duties and responsibilities for a specific job with a retailer is to view the job description.
  • You can find job descriptions on the retailer's website, through a job board or via social media.

Building Your Network

  • Your network is made up of people who can and will help you in your career development.
  • A network is defined as an interconnected group of people.
  • Your network will all have something either directly or indirectly in common-you!
  • You'll benefit by building a network of people who are in the position to accurately and enthusiastically represent you to their colleagues and business acquaintances.
  • Members of your network can often be references who endorse your skills and performance.
  • Networks include:
    • Relatives.
    • Friends of yours.
    • Friends of your parents, siblings or others.
    • Business associates.
    • Teachers and professors-past and present.
    • School and/or college career services office personnel.
    • Professional association members.
    • Volunteer connections.
    • Religious affiliations.
    • Retail industry professionals.
    • Other job seekers.
  • List the people in your network and think about how to expand it in your Retail Career Planner.
  • Building a network is not an alternative to improving yourself and building a good reputation.
  • Both require your attention to facilitate success in your career.

Maintaining Your Network

  • Many business professionals use LinkedIn to maintain their networks virtually.
  • LinkedIn is a business and employment-oriented service used via a website or mobile app.
  • Users create an online profile that may contain their job experiences and interests.
  • Take the time and create an accurate and professional LinkedIn profile, and keep your profile up-to-date.
  • Make sure your LinkedIn profile work experience matches your work experience on your resume; when you update one, you must update the other.
  • Some potential employers will look at your LinkedIn profile even before your resume!
  • This is a quick and easy way for people to learn about you, so you want to put your best foot forward.
  • Site functionality on LinkedIn includes connecting to others and receiving invitations to connect from others, receiving messages and notifications, a professional newsfeed, company information and job postings.
  • Many people use LinkedIn as a way to find and apply for jobs.
  • LinkedIn is known as a professional site and your profile should be professional too.
  • Post comments on LinkedIn to get more eyes on your profile - be your authentic self (Show some personality!) but always be professional.
  • For example, you might want to share an experience that inspired you personally and professionally.
  • When you update your resume with your National Retail Federation certification, be sure to add the certification to your LinkedIn profile as well!

Creating an Elevator Pitch

  • An elevator pitch is a succinct, persuasive sales pitch that can be delivered in the time span of a typical elevator ride, about 30 seconds.
  • The elevator pitch should capture a person's attention and explain who you are, what you do and why the person should pay attention to you.
  • It should also motivate them with a call to action.
  • An elevator pitch is often used in response to a face-to-face question from a stranger, such as "What do you do?"
  • The goal is to get a second conversation with the person.
  • Sample Elevator Pitch:
    • "Hi. My name is Alex French, and I am a retail sales associate specializing in beauty, cosmetics and skin care products.
    • I currently work in retail sales at Beauty for All, where I have gained extensive product knowledge, makeup application and sales experience.
    • I enjoy all aspects of my job and am hoping to grow my career in retail.
    • I am going to be in your area next week and I'd like to meet and talk for a few minutes."

Your Elevator Pitch

  • Open your Retail Career Planner, and complete the information below to create an elevator pitch.
  • Who you are: Using only a word or short phrase, complete the following sentence. Most people do lots of interesting things, but for now, just pick one thing and go with it.
    • I am a specializing in.
  • What you do: Write a single sentence that describes specifically what you do. The key is to give insight into both your approach and the type of value you deliver.
  • Why the person should be interested in you: Write a single sentence that describes why you are great at what you do. You want to differentiate yourself from others. It could be your experiences, your education or even your personality that sets you apart. What makes you special?
  • Call to action: To be successful, a pitch must engage the listener and get them to take action-any action-that puts them on a path to helping you. Write a single sentence that describes your call to action.

Searching for Jobs Online

  • The most direct way to find retail jobs today
  • Employers use multiple strategies to reach potential employees, offering options such as:
    • Company websites: Search open positions via a Careers or Jobs link at the bottom of the retailer’s home page. Many large retailers offer job previews in video.
    • Job boards: Search jobs at different companies, sorting by job title, location, estimated or actual pay, post date, and employment type. Popular job boards include Indeed.com, Monster.com and Glassdoor.com.
    • Social media: Sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter, or X, allow searching and applying for jobs.
    • NRF Job Board: The National Retail Federation has represented retail for over 100 years, and all jobs posted to http://jobs.nrf.com are retail industry opportunities.

Using the NRF Job Board

  1. Use the Keyword or Job Title field to look for a specific job title, such as "cashier," or a skill.
  2. Refine your search by indicating the location where you'd like to work.
  3. Click FIND A JOB to get a list of all available jobs.
  4. Many sites also allow you to have an email automatically sent to you if a new job is posted that matches your search criteria. In this case, you would fill the form with your email address.

Searching for Jobs Online

  • Practice using one of the online job resources to search for the following jobs:
    • Sales associate.
    • Fast food team member.
    • Stocker.
    • A retail job that is interesting to you.

Using an Online Job Application System

  • For nearly every job today, potential employees are required to complete an online job application. (Although if an online application is not available, a paper application is required.)
  • The online application is an important virtual legal document in which you:
    • Acknowledge your interest in the role you are applying for.
    • Confirm that the information provided is true and accurate.
    • Provide your employment history.
    • Detail the knowledge, skills and experience that support you as a candidate for the role.
  • The employer uses the application:
    • As a record of the people who applied for the job.
    • To identify whether a candidate's skills and experiences align with the available job.
    • To guide an interview with a candidate based on the information provided.
    • To retain information about potential employees who may be a good fit for another position in the future.
  • Read and follow the instructions on the application carefully.
  • Each retailer may have a different format and slightly different questions, but generally spaces that require information will be identified.
  • What's most important is that you answer questions honestly and completely.
  • Many entry-level retail jobs do not require a resume, but all retail jobs require an application.
  • You can attach a resume if you like, which may or may not pre-fill the application spaces. Even if it does, you still need to verify that all of the required fields on the application contain the right information.

Parts of an Online Application

  • It’s important to be prepared before you start to complete an online application.
  • You will typically be asked to enter:
    • Personal information such as your name, home address and a phone number where you can be reached.
    • General information such as the job you are applying for, your work availability, the date you are able to start, your salary expectations and any criminal convictions. In terms of salary expectations, it is always wise to communicate a range (instead of an exact number).
    • Legal questions ask about your eligibility to work in the United States.
    • Job history details from your past several jobs including the name of the company, a contact person and their contact information, your start and end dates of employment, your general job duties and your reason for leaving.
    • Your educational history from your most recent graduation back to high school. You will need to provide the name of the school, your major for any post-high school education, and your dates of attendance and graduation for each entry. Note: dates are optional; if you want to provide your dates of attendance and graduation, it's up to you, but it is not mandatory to list them.
    • There is generally a place to attach documents and you will attach a resume if it is required. Definitely upload the credential you received from completing this course.
    • Optional information such as race, gender, disability status, military service, etc., can be provided, but are not required. Some online application systems also ask for references that can speak about your work history, previous jobs or character.
  • At the end of the application process, you'll be asked to verify that the information you provided is true and accurate. This is referred to as an Authorization of Accuracy.
  • Before you submit the application, you should check for completeness, any misspelled words and whether you have used keywords appropriate to the position for which you are applying.
  • Online applications can be completed anywhere where you have access to a computer; they are usually submitted either through a job board or a retailer's website.
  • Some retailers will include QR codes in print and online materials, which will take you directly to the job application with your mobile phone.
  • Retailers may also offer kiosks or computers in the store where job applications can be completed. In these cases, it is possible that you may have an interview immediately after you complete the application in the store, so be prepared!
  • If you don't hear from a potential employer within two weeks, also be prepared to follow up on your application.
  • If you submit your application from home, you may still want to go into the store to meet the store manager or human relations representative.
  • This will set you apart from all the other applicants in the database.
  • At the store, use your elevator pitch to ask for an interview.
  • You may even get one on the spot, so be prepared, have a resume or copy of your application information with you and look professional.

Using Keywords When Submitting a Job Application

  • When you enter the details of past jobs and other supporting content (such as a resume if you choose to attach one to your application) into the online application system, it's important to include relevant keywords.
  • Each job application may require different keywords to match the specific job description.
  • Sample Keywords
    • Cashier
    • Relationship management
    • Clientele management
    • Retail sales
    • Customer loyalty
    • Customer service
    • Loss prevention
    • Retail technology
    • Safety certification
    • Sales achievement
    • Operations
    • Service desk
    • Order fulfillment
    • Service quality
    • Order processing
    • Teamwork
    • Receiving
    • Telemarketing
    • Records management
    • Training

Find the Keywords

  • For the job description below, identify five keywords that might be used on your application for this job.
  • BJ's Wholesale Club was the first retailer to introduce the warehouse club concept in the northeastern United States.
  • If you're a motivated and enthusiastic person who enjoys working collaboratively and is committed to providing great service for our Members, we want to hear from you.
  • BJ's offers a fast-paced, team environment with great training opportunities and competitive salary and benefits packages to help you succeed.
  • Additional responsibilities include but not limited to:Verifying memberships, scanning merchandise and accepting various forms of tender (e.g., cash, check, credit card, coupons, etc.)
  • Assisting members during the checkout process, performing all cash register functions
  • Minimum Age Requirements:Must be at least 16 years of age.

Succeeding in an Interview

  • Potential employers will email, text or call to schedule an interview.
  • Interviewing requires skills that demonstrate you are the right candidate.
  • Your application has the company's interest, so now convince the hiring manager that you can deliver.
  • A successful interview requires:
    • Preparation.
    • Care on the day of the interview.
    • Focus and attention during the meeting.
    • Follow-up after the fact.

Preparing for the Interview

  • Things you need to do to prepare:
    • Research the company and review the job description. Most retailer websites have a page or two that describes their background, mission, diversity and inclusion initiatives and company culture. This information can help you answer questions about the company and explain why you are a good fit.
    • Re-read the job description to remind yourself about the skills and qualities the employer is looking for in a candidate. Some of the interview questions will ask about these skills. Other things to research - their social media sites, their financials, and their Glassdoor reviews. The more you know, the better prepared you'll be!
    • Look up the person who will be interviewing you. Search for the person you will be meeting with on LinkedIn. Try to learn more about them, and perhaps find some commonalities you can share during the interview. Always try to form a personal connection, if possible.
    • Rehearse answers to basic interview questions. There are certain questions that are asked during most interviews. Preparing and rehearsing your answers allows you to speak with confidence during the interview.

Common Interview Questions

  • "Tell me about yourself."
    • This open-ended question provides an opportunity for you to make a connection with the interviewer and tell her/him what is important about you, as it relates to their hiring decision. Make sure what you share is a balance between who you are as a person and work. Be brief and engaging, and be sure not to ramble.
  • "What are your strengths?"
    • Describe strengths that are relevant to the job you are applying for. While other strengths are important, they take a backseat in an interview to the qualities the employer needs.
  • "What is your greatest weakness?"
    • While you need to provide an honest answer to this question, it is a good idea to also explain how you are working to overcome the weakness. For example, "In the past, it has been difficult for me to accept criticism from my peers. However, I have learned to ask for and value input and it has improved my performance."
  • "Why are you interested in working for this company? What do you know about us?"
    • Do some homework to be able to answer these questions in a genuine way. If you know very little about the company, it may indicate to the interviewer that you didn't care enough about the job to effectively prepare. Describe how the company fits with your career goals.
  • "Why should we hire you?"
    • Describe how you meet all or almost all of the criteria that they seek and may bring additional skills to the team, as well. This indicates that you may be interested in growing your career with them.
  • "Where do you see yourself in five years?"
    • Focus on the ways you would like to have helped the company over the past five years; they are most interested in how you plan to help them. You might also share additional skills you'd like to develop during that time.
  • "Tell me about a time when you contributed to a team project."
    • At some point, you have been part of a team: family, community, sports and school clubs all require teamwork. Teamwork is essential in retail to meet customer needs and maximize productivity. Choose an example that shows how you contributed to the team's success.
  • "Why did you leave your last job?"
    • Honesty is always best. If you were terminated, give a brief explanation about the circumstances and how you plan to do things differently now. If you left on your own, give reasons that contribute to career advancement. Keep it honest, and keep it positive!
  • "What does good customer service look like to you?"
    • The interviewer is checking to see if your view on customer service matches the company's perspective. If you haven't delivered customer service on the job yet, think of a time when you received great service and share what you liked about it.
  • "What tasks did you enjoy most about your last job or a recent school project?"
    • Respond enthusiastically with tasks, projects and accomplishments that benefited your last employer or school project. Share an example that describes skills relevant to the job.
  • "What tasks did you enjoy the least during your previous job or project?"
    • It is important to review the job description before crafting the answer to this question. Be careful not to describe something that is a significant responsibility of the job.

Interview Questions

  • Preparing to answer common questions can make you feel more relaxed and confident.
  • Write answers to these questions in your Retail Career Planner so you can refer back to them to practice before an interview.

Questions to Ask the Interviewer(s)

  • Toward the end of the interview, the interviewer will usually ask if you have any questions.
  • Asking questions is just as important as responding to interview questions; it shows the interviewer that you:
    • Are interested in learning more about the company and the position.
    • Have been attentive during the interview.
  • You also may want to share skills and experiences that were not covered during the interview, or clarify something that was previously discussed.
  • Not asking any questions can be an indication to the interviewer that you are really not that interested in getting the job.
  • Since you may be nervous during the interview, write your questions in a notebook or journal. Use the note pad to both read your questions and jot down any information you may want to remember. This can also be helpful for writing your thank-you email or note.
  • Sample questions:
    • "What do you love most about your job?"
    • "How would you describe a typical day on the job?"
    • "What skills will I need to grow with the company?"
    • "Is there a specific dress code?"
    • "When will you make the hiring decision?"
  • Asking good questions is your second opportunity to shine!

Asking the Right Questions

  • Using the previous list as a starting point, what questions would you ask the interviewer in the following scenarios?
    • A department store is preparing for the back-to-school and holiday seasons. You are interviewing for a temporary cashier position.
    • Your goal is a career in product buying at a well-established, large company. You have the opportunity to interview with the company for an entry-level sales associate job.

Final Preparations

  • Here are some other things you'll want to take care of ahead of time:
    • Know where you're going and practice the commute.
    • Is your interview during rush hour?
    • Do you need to take an unfamiliar train?
    • Will you need to pay to park?
  • Making the trip ahead of time can set your mind at ease for what to expect on the day of the interview.
  • Know who to contact in case of emergency.
  • Unforeseen events happen.
  • Be sure to have the name of the right person to contact in case you are delayed or unable to be at the interview at all.
  • Choose your clothes. The day of the interview is not the time to realize that your shirt is missing a button.
  • Be sure your clothing is selected, clean and ready to wear before the day of your interview.
  • Prepare resume copies and other materials.
  • It may be appropriate to bring some printed copies of your resume and a copy of this certification to your interview. Have these items ready and in a folder so you don't need to rush to get them ready at the last minute.
  • Get a good night's sleep the night before your interview!

On the Day of the Interview

  • Since you will have invested your time and energy into preparing for the interview, hopefully your anxiety will be minimal.
  • Here are a few tips to keep you relaxed:
    • Eat something light so that you don't feel too full or lethargic. Drink plenty of water and be careful not to have too much coffee if it makes you jittery.
    • Dress appropriately and professionally; this impacts the interviewer's initial impression of you.
    • Review the job description again to remind yourself of the skills required for the job and how you will demonstrate that you can deliver them.
    • Get some fresh air: a bit of sunshine can give you a boost of energy.
    • Bring any materials you prepared, and a notepad and a pen so you can take notes.
  • It's important not to be late, so arrive early, but not too early! Arriving too early can be an inconvenience to the interviewer; getting there 10 to 15 minutes early will give you time to relax. Be sure to contact the appropriate person if something comes up and being late is unavoidable.
  • Be sure your cell phone is off or in silent mode once you are waiting to be called for your interview.

During the Interview

  • An interview is an opportunity to learn-the interviewer is learning about you and you are learning about the job and the company.
  • Think of it as a pleasant conversation.
  • Interviewers base their assessment of you on your responses, attitude, general conversation, energy, enthusiasm, confidence, posture, appearance and follow-up. Your careful preparation can make the interview go very smoothly.
  • It's very important to have a positive attitude during an interview.
  • Remember, skills can be taught, so many employers hire for attitude, potential and personality.
  • Make a connection. Observe your surroundings. Does the interviewer have awards or interesting decor, such motivational sayings or trophies, that you share an interest in? Make a comment to establish a common connection, but only if you can do so with sincerity.
  • Express interest in the company and the job. Most interviewers will warm up quickly to a candidate who seems as excited about the business as they are, so the research you did about the job, company and its products and services will help here.
  • Focus on what you can do for them, rather than what they can do for you. The initial interview is about connecting your skills to their needs in everything you say.
  • Be aware of your body language. During an interview, body language can reveal a great deal about a person. Too much or too little of something tends to be off-putting.
  • Nodding, smiling, keeping your arms uncrossed and making eye contact appropriately show that you are focused and confident.
  • Consider the following guidelines for eye contact:
    • Fewer than 5 seconds:
      • Emotion: Distressing
      • Message: Reflects nervousness and undermines credibility
    • 5-10 seconds:
      • Emotion: Comforting
      • Message: Shows you are connected and engaged
    • 10+ seconds:
      • Emotion: Intimate and/or intimidating
      • Message: Might make the other person uncomfortable
  • Listen carefully to the question and answer concisely to keep the interviewer's focus.
  • Talking about your accomplishments will not only give the hiring manager an idea of what you've done in the past, but also paint a picture of how you'll perform in future positions. Give examples that show your value.
  • Listen carefully and observe the interviewer's nonverbal cues. Be careful not to use filler words, such as, "um… you know… and like…" several times within a sentence. When you are asked a question that you haven't rehearsed, take a moment to think about your answer before responding.
  • Talk about certificates and previous training. You will have worked hard to complete this training and pass the certification test to receive your credential. This emphasizes that you will work hard, are willing to learn and grow and are interested in the retail industry.
  • Ask questions. When invited to do so, ask the questions that you prepared ahead of time. Thoughtful questions show that you are proactive and want to make sure that this company is the right place for you. Remember that you are choosing the company as much as the company is choosing you, so ask good questions to make sure you like the culture and role.
  • But don't ask about salary during the interview. The salary is often posted now for hourly jobs in advance on the job description. Avoid bringing up salary during the interview. Wait for the hiring manager to inform you of the salary first as you don't want it to seem that you are more interested in the pay than you are in the opportunity with this company.

Virtual Interviews

  • Virtual interviews are becoming incredibly common. All in-person interview etiquette applies to virtual interviews as well (for example, you want to be prepared, look presentable, and put your best foot forward), but below are some additional tips.
  • Find a quiet place. Pick a quiet place where you will have the virtual interview. Make sure your background is not cluttered - keep it clean and simple.
  • Test your technology beforehand. A virtual interview requires tools like a camera and microphone on your computer, a software program (such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom) and a reliable internet connection. Try to connect at least five minutes before the interview to ensure you can establish a connection. You never want to show up late for a virtual interview. Many times the interviewer will need to admit you, so don't be alarmed when you are sitting in a waiting area until admitted into the interview. Remember to always keep your camera on throughout a virtual interview! Tip: You can choose a simple virtual background on Teams or Zoom, too.
  • Avoid distractions. The golden rule act as if you were interviewing in person. For example, avoid distractions, such as looking at your phone, or looking around the room. Your eyes should be on the person interviewing you. You'll want to sit up straight and maintain good eye contact from start to finish.

Following Up After the Interview

  • The hard part is over.
  • However, there is one very important activity that you still need to do.
  • Send a thank-you email or card to the person or people who interviewed you.

Sending a Thank-You

  • After every job interview, even if things didn't go well, take the time to write a brief thank-you note to each person who was a part of the interview process.
  • While a handwritten, mailed thank-you card is appropriate in some cases, generally email thank-you notes are used today.
  • A thank-you email should be sent to each interviewer individually within 24 hours after the interview, whenever possible.
  • Of course, that means you need each person's email address. It may have been provided to you prior to the interview, but maybe not. When you don't have an interviewer's email address, ask for it at the end of your interview. You can also message the Hiring Manager on LinkedIn to ask for it. If the interviewer does not have an email address, send a small thank-you card.

How to Write a Thank-You Email

  • In addition to thanking the person for their time and consideration, your note should reinforce the fact that you want the job. Use it to:
    • Mention something you learned in the interview to show that you were fully engaged.
    • Reiterate the skills you have that meet the employer's needs.
    • Remind them why you are a good fit with the company's culture.
  • Here are a few other tips:
    1. In the subject line, include the words, "Thank you," and either your name, the job you interviewed for (or both).
      • For example:
        • Thank you Alex Chen, Sales Associate.
      • The person may receive many emails each day and this can quickly identify yours.
    2. Don't be too familiar or casual. Memes, Internet acronyms and links to personal social media accounts that may contain pictures with unprofessional behavior are not appropriate.
    3. Proofread to check for complete sentences, spelling errors and other grammar mistakes. Have another person double-check it for you before you hit Send, if possible.
    4. End your email by thanking the person again.
    5. Make sure to maintain a copy of each email you send.
  • The note should be brief and to the point with no more than a few paragraphs. Retail employees are busy-the hiring manager may not have time to read a lengthy thank-you letter.
  • Example Thank-You Email

Just a Bit More Follow-Up

  • Once you've sent your thank-you note, keep a positive attitude as you await a reply. But don't stalk your interviewers. One follow-up email after a week if you haven't heard back is acceptable. Beyond that you're no longer promoting yourself in a positive way. Repeatedly pestering them with follow-up contact doesn't demonstrate good judgment.

Using Good Judgment on Social Media

  • Your social media content and images should portray you in a professional and positive way.
  • If are ready to move into the workforce, it may be time to scrub your social media accounts.
  • Eliminate posts that contain:
  • Negative comments about companies.
  • Anything that could be mistaken for stalking or harassing behavior.
  • Inappropriate words or pictures.
  • Excessive pessimism.
  • If you have a poor experience during a job interview, always resist the urge to comment about it on social media. Chalk it up to experience and get ready for your next interview.

Your First Day on the Job

  • It's your first day at work. Yay! First of all, try to relax. Remember that you were chosen because your employer liked you and knows you can do the job. That should give you a boost of confidence to start the day!
  • Similar to your interview, you want to make a good impression on your first day. That means you'll want to do all the good stuff you did for your interview: review the job description before you go in, be on time (plan your commute in advance), look professional, display a positive attitude, be respectful of your manager and coworkers, actively listen, ask questions if you have any, and most of all-bring your curiosity to learn. Employers respond well to someone who is eager to learn new things and has a can-do attitude.
  • It's also a good idea to bring a notebook or something to jot down notes when you start a job. There's a lot to remember, so taking detailed notes can be incredibly helpful. And it can save you the trouble of asking the same questions over and over again!

Being a Good Employee

  • Rest-assured, as you gain experience on the job, things will get easier.
  • But here are some tips for being a good employee, every day-not just day one:
    • Follow company policies and procedures.
    • Be on time and stay until your shift is officially over.
    • Communicate in advance with your manager if you're going to be late for some reason.
    • Be aware of your employer's expectations and try to exceed those expectations.
    • Follow the company's dress code and do your best to be presentable every day.
    • Display a positive attitude (even on days when you don't feel your best).
    • Look for new ways to improve yourself and add value to the company.
    • If you don't understand something, ask questions and seek help when needed.
    • Be a team player; be open to learning new things