Landing your first summer job is an exciting moment in a young person’s life. But if you don’t follow some basic workplace protocols, you may be in danger of losing it before long.

We have all experienced the desire to earn our own money so we can buy those shoes at Traffic, the outfit from Seal, that purse from Macy’s without the limits set by our parents. So what is the cure for this? We seek summer employment, and now you’ve landed your first summer job, how do you keep it? In today’s competitive workforce it is best to have the inside scoop on how to keep and maintain a professional working relationship with your employer. From a manager’s point of view here are some key points to help you out.

• Be on time. There is nothing more important than being on time. If you are assigned to the first shift your day goes smoother when you have time to prepare for the beginning of the day. You don’t rush in hoping someone will cover your responsibility until you get there. If you are working the second shift be considerate of the person you are replacing. They may have an appointment after work.
• Dress appropriately. Your work attire should be discussed during your interview or hire. Whether you are in uniform or not always, always be clean. Maintain a neat hairstyle or haircut. Never wear anything revealing. Ladies pull your blouses up; Gents pull your pants up.
• Put those electronic devices away. Cell phones and iPods need to be stored out of your work area and used during your break. There is nothing more annoying than having an employee trying to (WWT) Work While Texting. You loose focus, leave room for mistakes, and it slows down productivity. If you are working in a customer service capacity it makes the customer feel ignored and that could cost you a sale.
• Keep your business, your business. Don’t discuss your personal life at work. This cuts off the “he say, she say” which could leave room for gossip and uncomfortable feelings down the road. Keep it professional.
• Hold your head up and be proud. No matter what position you have landed always take pride in every position you hold. When you embrace what you have been hired for you show your ability to move up and take on greater responsibility. This can one day lead to management. Be creative, inspiring, and work hard.
• Don’t burn your bridges. Always leave a positive impression. If you enjoy your job and it is only for the summer inquire about working part-time during the school year, and request to be hired next summer. This is a summer job try not to call in. (You are working for about six weeks) If you don’t like your job, don’t just walk off. Give a letter of resignation. It will leave the door open for future opportunities. You never know if you have to pass that way again.

Summer employment, with the proper attitude and training, can equip you with the skills to always maintain employment for life.