When you're 18 years old, working in a corporate environment is not usually your first choice when deciding what job to tackle. College students tend to lean towards restaurant positions or other small part time jobs that don't require massive amounts of commitment. Throughout the last year, I have worked under some of the most important people in Nashville, and it was a very eye opening experience. Here's just a couple of things to give you guys a small taste of what it's like:
Dress code
You have to look your best every single day. For some people that may be exactly what you're looking for, but on the days when you don't feel your best, trust me — it's difficult. Presentation is one of the most important factors. A client looks at you and makes an assumption before you even open your mouth to discuss services.
Hard work is only part of it
Sometimes, just trying your best isn't enough. When working in a corporate setting, you have to be on your A game at all times. Mistakes have to be few and far between, if not, non-existent. This is both a blessing and a curse, because you have to think quickly on your feet and react with the appropriate measures. One small mistake can be very costly.
Sometimes, your feelings don't matter
You have to accept the fact that everyone has something going on outside of work, and it needs to be left outside of work. Multi-million dollar companies can't afford for you to show up to work in a tizzy because your pet died. When life gets overwhelming, you have to learn to leave your emotions at the door and consume yourself in your work. This is incredibly hard for a college student like myself.
Intelligence is not measured through a degree
When you enter an office, you may see an employee's degree(s) and certifications displayed in a fancy plaque or frame. This means almost nothing. I have not earned my degree yet, and I still have valuable things to bring to the table. Always, always remember that your ideas should never go unheard, and there is no such thing as a stupid question. If there's one thing I learned from this job, it's that over-communication is very much appreciated. Your voice matters, too — even if you're at the bottom of the totem pole.
You have to involve yourself.
Your boss or supervisor is not going to come to you and ask you what tasks you would like to take on. It's up to you to let them know what your strengths and weaknesses are, as well as your talents. If you want extra responsibilities, you have to chase them. Don't be one of those people that just goes through the motions of having a desk job. Involve yourself and make whatever you do more exciting than it actually may be. It's called taking initiative.
Speak up.
This is the most valuable lesson I have learned throughout my time at the firm. If something isn't going right, let somebody know. If you have a problem and don't know how to resolve it, ask questions. Most importantly, say thank you. Companies take huge risks hiring young people, for our generation is best known for its laziness and lack of enthusiasm. Appreciate every opportunity given to you, and be thankful for it. They took a chance on you, and you need to show gratitude, whether it works out or not.
I have grown more as a person throughout the past 11 months I've spent working in one of Nashville's most prestigious engineering firms. It has taught me to be more mature and responsible, to manage my time, and to network as well. Opportunities like this are not available everywhere, and I am beyond blessed to have been given the chance to further my vocational skills before I graduate college and obtain a full time position.
