Develop a good work ethic to move your career along.
Some people are lucky enough to develop a solid work ethic when they're young. Running a lemonade stand, waking up at 4 a.m. to deliver newspapers or babysitting younger siblings can help kids and young adults understand and value work. However, other people - even some adults - don't yet have a great work ethic. Try to develop one before it's too late - you don't want to lag behind at your new job because you're a serial procrastinator, or blow an interview for your dream job because you show up late to the appointment.
Instructions
1. Dress the part and create an appearance that's in sync with an office or career, showing others that you take the job seriously. Even self-employed entrepreneurs maintain their appearance to a degree, even if they're going to be working solo in the privacy or their home office.
2. Show up on time, or even a few minutes early. Starting work at 9 a.m. doesn't mean putting your belongings at the desk, making coffee and turning on the computer at 9. It means sitting down, ready to work by 9 a.m. Get to work early if extra time is needed to set up for the day.
3. Learn to work efficiently. Working straight for eight hours without taking more than a quick lunch break doesn't necessarily mean that the work is being finished in a timely manner. Break up job duties into manageable steps, outline a time limit to complete each one and track progress.
4. Follow up through on commitments. If a boss asks his employee to work an extra weekend shift or take care of an additional project, and the employee agrees, the work should get done no matter what. Be dependable by not backing out of what you've already agreed to.
5. Own up to mistakes and take responsibility for negative actions. It may be embarrassing, but it's the only way to continue to be trusted and relied on at work.
6. Take a break. This may seem like it defeats the purpose of establishing a great work ethic, but on the contrary, making time for your personal life can actually help work performance. Unwinding, relaxing and engaging in enjoyable hobbies and pastimes makes people all the more ready to attack work once Monday morning rolls around again.
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