Making the most of your entry-level job!

     Many top-level business executives, including some C.E.O.'s began their careers in entry-level positions!

These positions may not fulfill a post-grad's dream, but they are often great opportunities for freshly-minted graduates to learn about the given industry.

     Like many opportunities, entry-level jobs are often only as valuable as employees want them to be.

Those who approach entry-level opportunities with a good attitude, and a strong desire to learn are the ones who are most likely to someday consider their experiences as entry-level employees as invaluable.

With that in mind, the following are a few ways entry-level workers can make the most of their opportunity :

• MAINTAIN A GOOD ATTITUDE

The chances are that your first few months as an entry-level employee will be spent performing some tedious tasks which may have only little to do with your long-term career goals.

Approaching these tasks with enthusiasm may be difficult, but do your best to maintain your positive attitude.

Your co-workers, and bosses will observe how you respond to your work-load, and that can dictate your future with the company.

In addition, those who are above you on the company "food-chain" have most likely performed some menial works when they began their careers too!

A poor attitude that suggests you are above menial works will harbour resentment amongst you, and those who've already done them.

• BE READY TO "CHIP-IN"

A willingness to co-operate, and work a few extra hours when help is needed is a great way for entry-level employees to get noticed!

Helping co-workers is excellent, but make certain that your own responsibilities aren't suffering because you've been too quick to lend your helping hands.

Once you have "cleared your plate", then approach your boss about helping the others.

This good gesture will get you noticed. 

• LEARN THE "LAY OF THE LAND"

The companies vary in regards to the culture, especially offices. 

A casual environment may have prevailed at your past internship, but that doesn't necessarily mean your new employer accepts the same.

When  beginning a new entry-level job, give your attention to how the staff interacts with one another, and how decisions are made.

Information such as this will help you to advance in your career, and build good relationships within the company.

• DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS

Not everyone will expect you to be fully satisfied with an entry-level position for your entire career, so don't be afraid to seek opportunities to further develop your skills.

These opportunities may present themselves within the company via an interesting project, or outside the company via a class at the local college.

Please do take advantage of any chance to develop your skills.

Don't feel guilty about pursuing opportunities that have only little to do with your current position, as long as you're still doing your current job to the best of your abilities.

A good company will be impressed by your desire to learn, and grow your skill-set, so don't hesitate to seek these opportunities.

                                                                                  from : The Government of Ontario