Class of 2016–it’s time to give a damn (all the way to the top of your coming success).
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Congratulations, graduates! You’ve worked hard (or skated by), but someone handed you the piece of paper saying you did it. Well done. Go update your resumé.
Here’s a secret I learned based on many years as a high school English teacher:
Those who give a damn shall succeed.
Though we live in an instant gratification society, you, young friends, are at the bottom of the totem pole. From today forward, it is your work ethic (not your new degree or your parents’ reputation) that will separate you from the pack.
You won’t be the boss on the first day. You may not even get to work in your field right away. However, if you give a damn about how you present yourself to the world, trust me, others will notice and help you move up.
Some Give-a-Damn Advice:
- Show up to work on time.
- Demonstrate some initiative and creativity in your tasks (not just the minimum).
- Shake hands and look others in the eye.
- Learn people’s names. Introduce yourself again if you forget a name.
- Treat everyone, from the cleaning staff to your boss, with respect.
- Admit your mistakes. Don’t make excuses or blame others if you screw up.
- Put your phone away and interact.
- Make deadlines.
- Collaborate with your team and give credit appropriately.
- Above all, take pride in your work, whatever it is.
And move out of your parents’ basement.
You’ll all be happier, I promise.
Good luck!
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Photo: Flickr
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