How can a student get the most out of a job? How can he/she succeed on the job? What can be done to establish a good on-the-job reputation? The answers to these questions are related. When a student is able to answer one question, often they will have the answer to another.

Before offering a number of suggestions, we presume that as an employee the student wants to do a good job, and is receptive to advice and criticism.

Being new on a job, the student will have some latitude because they are beginners, but this period of grace will not last forever. Below are some suggestions which may be helpful:

1. Find out what your work is, what your responsibilities are. Ask questions. Speak up.

2. Be certain you understand when being given instructions. Concentrate.

3. Know who can give you information, advice, or help. Don't be scared to ask questions.

4. Read the literature pertaining to your place of employment.

5. Read the instructions for operating equipment and machinery.

6. Read and follow the company rules. They are usually posted.

7. Work as accurately, safely, and quickly, as you can. Set high standards.

8. Learn from your mistakes. Don't try to cover up.

9. Remember that much of your work may be routine--but important. Do the routine things as capably as you do the more complex and sophisticated work.

10. Try to do more than you are required to do. Keep productively busy.

11. Observe everything. Watch how the "old hands" operate. Why are some individuals more effective and efficient than others?