Ten Simple Rules

"Hell, there are no rules here-- we're trying to accomplish something." Thomas Edison

As my kids have grown up and headed out into the work place we've gotten to have more conversations about their trials and tribulations of being wage earners. Around this I wrote for their benefit the following. I pulled this out the other day. Not for them, for me. I felt I needed a refresher. Each point is probably worthy of a blog session on its own.

The 10 simple (well, they sound simple and should be simple but really aren’t simple) rules to being a successful employee.

1. The place you work is truly only interested in what YOU can do for them.  Yes, good employers realize that happy, motivated, well-trained employees are great assets, but….
2. Never (ever, ever)….(ever, ever, ever) lie, cheat or steal. It will create a stigma that can never be overcome.
3. Always treat every assignment as an opportunity to learn something useful. Knowledge really is power.
4. Being positive and flexible can overcome many other faults. Most bosses greatly appreciate “can do” attitudes.
5. The people you work with want to get to know you, but, uh, not all that well. Actually they mainly want to tell you about themselves or learn things they can use against you. (Note:  remember how I said they sound simple but aren't?  This one is a paradox.  Most of my close friends I met from working with them, but the percentage of friends vs. the vast number of people I've been in the same company with is miniscule.)
6. Ignore the time clock. Getting the job done should always be the priority.
7. Volunteer (without fanfare) for some real crap assignments. One, you’ll learn something. Two, you’ll show you’re flexible. But the “without fanfare” is the key.
8. You don’t have to like the people around you to work effectively with them. You also don’t have to be subservient to people who are unduly difficult.
9. Get to know as many people as you can and understand what they do and how it affects the company, your group and you. See #3
10. Get to the point. People generally aren’t interested in the process and the explanation, just the answer.  If they want more they'll ask.
11. Bonus Point: Learn to drink your coffee black (don't be high maintenance) and understand that business meals aren’t about eating and business cocktails aren't about drinking (this isn't dinner at home or being at a bar with your friends). Learn to recognize situations and adapt accordingly.

If you’ve followed these rules and get fired, shame on you for not getting out of that hole before it happened.