Life is a puzzle, you put it together as you go. Some things fit perfectly, while others don’t, but you always wish you had some advice to guide you along your way.
Moorelands VITAL (Volunteers In Training As Leaders) program helps youth develop leadership skills and positive character qualities that will prepare them to succeed in school and the workplace. To help our participants, before they transition from High School to post-secondary education or the world of work, we’ve created a short series of advice articles: Advice I Wish I’d Had.
In this series, University and College students share what they have learned since graduating High School, from transitioning into University or College to finding a summer job. This week find out what advice they give on starting a new job.Rabia | Communications and Marketing | Ryerson University
Be open to everything. There will always be a few things about a new job that are not stated in the job description. Always be prepared to take on whatever is thrown your way but also know where to draw a line. Your mental health is always more important and make sure to let your coworkers and supervisor(s) know when you need a break.
Arianna | Animation | Durham College
Make sure you ask your manager/supervisor all the questions you may have. It’s your first day they know some things may confuse you.Savannah | Professional Communications | Ryerson University
Be kind to coworkers and build relationships with them. The people you work with can expose you to new opportunities, and you never know when you’ll need a recommendation.
Anonymous | Life Sciences | UOIT
Always ask questions if you are not sure if what you are doing is correct or how to deal with a problem.Anonymous | Practical Nursing | Centennial College
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, it ensures the employee that you take your job seriously
Anonymous | Graphic Design | OCAD
You might be flustered trying to learn everything at once. Remember you’re there to learn and your co-workers will understand.
Anonymous | Business Technology Management | Ryerson University
It is okay to make mistakes, that’s why it’s called learning. So long as you understand what led you to making that mistake and the approach you should have taken instead, it will be less likely for you to make that mistake going forward.Mustafa | Neuroscience | University of Toronto
Don’t get anxious. Everyone knows you’re still learning. Give yourself time.
Anonymous | Double Major in English and Sociology with an emphasis in Education | Trent University
Be ready to learn. Things may be tough for the first few days, but you’ll eventually get the hang of it.Giulia | Professional Communications | Ryerson University
Go in with an open mind and be ready to learn.
Nick | Nuclear Engineering | UOIT
Try to build as many relationships as you can. Having connections is good for networking. This can potentially help you land other jobs further down your career.
To learn more about the benefits of building your network read our article Networking Tips for Teens
By Vimbai Chikoore