*Collaborative post.
I got a job in a retail bank as a customer service when I was 18 years old. It was my first job. I got a 3 months contract with this bank that cannot named for many reasons. It was an internship sort of contract. Part of the requirements of my Bsc Accounting Degree at the university. I remember the experience being hard at first for me as a teenager. It was my first job, so understandably I found it a bit difficult waking up extra early every morning for 3 months to be at my desk ready for customers by 8am.
This job was nothing I taught it would be when I daydreamed about it many years ago. I saw myself working somewhere fun and far away. I thought of jobs like ski chalet jobs, and working as a life guard on a beautiful beach. But my reality was far from that. Having said that, it was a fun role. I enjoyed the experience and all it taught me.
Here are some things I took away with me –
The early bird catches the worm
I learnt the importance of being punctual for every job. I also learnt the importance grabbing every business opportunity that comes my way. With this job, opportunities came in form of customers wanting to open accounts but were unsure of which account to go for, and so on. I have taken this life lesson away with me to the self – employment world, and it helps me stay on top of my game. Being on time and making the most of the opportunities that come my way have helped my business.
Be professional
My manager taught me the importance of being professional and I carried took those life lessons with me. Staying professional and being myself at various workplace have saved my sanity and job. I always remember to stay professional even now that I work for myself. And I think it is more important to be professional when you run your own business or work for yourself as it is easy to cross the line with clients and business associates.
Dress to impress
My customer service role didn’t really teach me to dress to impress. I had that in me long before starting my first job. But it kind of reminded me of the importance of looking your best when on the job.
These are some of the life lessons I took away with me from my first job as a young shy 18-year-old. What did you take away from yours?