Office Etiquette for your Summer Job

When it comes to office hierarchy, summer students tend to land at the bottom of the totem pole. Because of this, a certain level of respect and decorum is expected, starting on day one. You’re a small fish in a big pond, so you have to take the job seriously and demonstrate that you’re ready, willing and able to do what’s expected of you to help your colleagues and superiors.

Just because a job is temporary doesn’t mean it isn’t valuable. If you don’t take it seriously, you could miss out on future opportunities – including references.

While expectations vary from office to office, it’s always important to start any job, not just your summer job, from a place of respect. Once you’re in the job, you will be able to get a feel for the environment and settle in.

Respect other people’s space

Say you need something from a colleague and they are not presently at their desk, but the item you need (document, file, stapler) is. It’s not right for you to just take it without asking. Send an office email requesting to borrow the item, or wait until they are back at their workstation and politely ask for it. Even something small like a pair of scissors or a pen isn’t yours for the taking – even if it’s technically office property. It’s not okay to borrow office supplies from somebody’s desk without asking. And when you do borrow something, always return it.

If you’re missing crucial office supplies, send in a request to your manager asking for these items.

Be on time

Everyone is late once in a while. Buses break down, alarms fail to go off, and so on. But if you demonstrate to your employer that you are chronically late, you are sending the message that you do not value their time. Being on time shows that you are mature, organized and ready to work. Your lateness could be interpreted as your not taking the job seriously, and that can set the tone for the remainder of your time with the company.

If you are required to be at the office between a predetermined set of hours, stick to it. You may learn later that you can adjust your working hours, but never assume this. Always stick to your agreed-upon hours.

Don’t abuse your privileges

If you are lucky enough to be given a company computer, laptop, tablet and/or mobile phone, remember that these are not your personal devices. You should never download programs, stream non-work-related content, or use long-distance minutes or data outside of working hours. While some harmless browsing on your lunch hour is okay in many offices, spending your working hours messing around using company-provided equipment is an abuse of privilege. Remember, many companies monitor internet activity in the workplace.

You’re not above some tasks

While no employer should ever be able to exploit temporary or seasonal employees, you should never enter into a job like this with the attitude that some tasks are beneath you. If you want to build trust and foster positive working relationships with colleagues and superiors, volunteer to do some small tasks to help others. It shows them you’re willing to work and are a team player. This could lead to your manager giving you more responsibilities and interesting projects in the future. You have to put in the time to earn it.

It’s not JUST a summer job

Instead of treating this position like a temporary one, consider it a stepping stone. Sure, this job might not be fulfilling in the way you expect it to be in terms of the type of work you do, but it’s not a waste of time. The temporary nature of the job doesn’t entitle you to goof off and not take it seriously. This job is a great way to be introduced to the workplace. It’s great for building your resume and gaining references. It’s also good for learning about the different types of positions within an organization, which can inspire you to take a new or different career path.

The bottom line is that this is job experience, and that is so important in an incredibly competitive market.

Consider these unwritten rules to abide by to help you get the most out of your summer office job or entry-level position

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