Unlike university life, where you might get away with late submissions and skipping the occasional lecture, the workplace demands a different level of commitment. Punctuality, focus, and professionalism are essential if you want to impress.
BE PUNCTUAL
- Arrive on time and do not leave work early unnecessarily.
- If you need to start late or leave early, seek permission from your manager and let them know your reason for doing so. Do not assume it is acceptable to be "flexible".
- Always seek permission for absences during official work hours, even when working remotely.
BE PROFESSIONAL
- For interns, treat your internship like a real job.
- Behave in a mature and respectful way with everyone.
- Avoid using slang and uncommon abbreviations in official work settings.
- Maintain professionalism in both speech and email writing.
- Use clear and concise language in emails and other communications to ensure your message is easily understood.
(Tip: Read this to learn how to write an email properly.)
BE ATTENTIVE
- Give colleagues your full attention when they are speaking to you, especially when they are sharing valuable insights or teaching you the ropes.
- Avoid distractions like phones and keep them on silent mode during work hours.
- In online meetings, turn on your camera to maintain engagement and do not multitask.
BE APPROACHABLE
- Interact with fellow interns and colleagues.
- Be a team player.
- Be humble and respectful of differing opinions.
- Be mindful of how your actions may affect others.
- Avoid getting involved in office politics and gossip; focus on building meaningful workplace relationships.
BE ACCOUNTABLE
- If you make a mistake, acknowledge it and work toward a solution. This builds trust and shows maturity.
- Follow through on your commitments. If you say you will handle a task, ensure it is completed on time and to the best of your ability.
BE WILLING TO LEARN AND WORK HARD
- Put forth your best effort into every task, regardless of how small and menial they seem.
- Do well in simple tasks to earn trust for more important work.
- Be open to putting in extra time when necessary and volunteering for extra responsibilities.
The same workplace etiquette applies whether you are working in an office or remotely and is relevant for both internships and full-time positions. By adhering to these guidelines, you can create a positive impression and lay the groundwork for a successful career.
