As we are nearing the end of the school year, we are also nearing the start of the work season for most! An exciting time no doubt for students returning to companies and students new to the workforce about to start on a wonderful adventure. If you’re new to the workforce, anxious to make a great impression with your employers you may be wondering, what do I need to do? Third year Business Technology Management (Co-op) student Hansen Brown answers some questions to help you better understand what you need to do to make the best possible impression.

Hansen, you’re returning to your previous employers, are you planning to do anything special on when you return?

Nothing special. I plan to ask for more iniative; I’m continuing with the same people so its’ important for them to know that I’ve learned more and I’m able to take on much more work.

What would you recommend to students who are just about to start on their work term? What is the number one most important thing they need to do?

I would recommend taking some time to relax before starting and my number one item would be getting a lot of sleep in the week leading up to starting work. That is very important because work makes you tired different than school, you’ll find that while you don’t have any assignments or studying, you still generally are fatigued from working throughout the day. Another thing I just thought of that’s equally important is dressing well. Make sure you have a nice change of wardrobe; that is a great way to make a good impression.

Why would you say that’s the most important?

Well, you definitely don’t want to be stressed out on your first week of work, you want to have a positive outlook and rest helps you achieve that. With respect to clothing, first impressions are important. First impressions are largely based off of appearance, someone can have an impression of you and you wouldn’t necessarily have to speak with them. The way you dress says a lot about you.

What are some tips you have for students? Money savers, sleep advice, healthy lifestyle, etc. (things students generally lose sight of while at work).

When your starting work you generally don’t know anyone, so try not to eat lunch on your own. Always find someone to grab lunch with. Lunch is a great way to get to know everyone in your office; open up to them ask them for career advice, learn about what they studied where they worked, you’ll be surprised at how much you learn and can apply to your own life. Another thing is bringing a lunch from home, it’s nice to treat yourself once in a while, but a lunch from home saves you a lot of money in the long run. You’ll be surprised at how much you spend if you end up purchasing food everyday. Thirdly, you want to develop a sleep cycle, it’s great for you. Lastly, I would recommend joining a gym. After a day at work, relieving some stress is important and there isn’t a better way to do that then going to the gym. It helps you stay healthy, and you feel much better about yourself.

Thank you very much Hansen!

To students starting their co-op/internship/summer employment this summer, I wish you the best of luck! Please feel free to ask any questions you make have!

Do you have any tips for students about to start on their work term?