[vc_row][vc_column width="1/1"][vc_single_image image="2726" img_link_target="_self" img_size="1100x512"][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row row_type="row" type="grid" text_align="left" padding_top="20" padding_bottom="30"][vc_column width="1/1"][ordered_list]As many of you are receiving offers to start new careers, I thought it would be important to give advice on what to do once you start a new company. The first three months of work can be exciting, stressful and confusing. Listed below are tips that in my opinion will help you get off to the right start.

1. On time. All the time!It is imperative to make a great impression by showing up on time and prepared. If you are in Las Vegas, plan to arrive at your hotel 30 minutes in advance. This will give you plenty of time to ensure you dress the part and are ready to start work. Your Manager does not want to hear excuses about traffic, parking, shuttle rides etc.When attending meetings, arrive 10 minutes early and prepared. Do not arrive early and then get coffee or use the restroom. This is your time to shine and you should be alert to answer any questions.
2. Do not drink too much of the fruit punch.When starting employment at a new company, it’s easy to buy in to the corporate philosophy, vision, mission and values. It’s important to know and uphold the standards. It’s also important to be realistic of your surroundings and understand that there may be some of your co-workers who do not always comply with the culture. The goal is to not be disappointed by their shortcomings or trap yourself in the negativity. Be positive, know the standards and try not to police others until you are acquainted with your environment.
3. You do not have to win the friend of the year award.Socialization is an important quality and necessary when working. Often times, you will meet your co-workers and develop close bonds. At the same time, know that you are in a professional environment and that you were hired to work and not to be over social.If there is a co-worker that has not warmed up to you or is not pleasant, be polite and know that you do not have to win every co-worker as your friend. During the first year, you should allow ample time before befriending your fellow co-workers and trusting them with information that may be too personal or damaging to your working career.
4. To post or not to post! That is the question. And here is the answer.Social Media has changed the scope of communication and allows many people to see a part of who you are as a person. Posting every party or social event that you attend may be entertaining for your friends.It is necessary to be cautious as many of your co-workers or management may have different opinions of your outings and can utilize the information to create negative outcomes. If possible, have a separate or blocked network for professionals and have another area for friends.
5. You do not have to rescue kittens from trees and be a master swordsman.Be yourself when approaching your new career. You do not have to boast your past accomplishments or embellish who you are.  It is important to have confidence, but respect is earned. Do a great job and your past will contribute to your future. It’s not necessary to talk about your past more frequently than the “now”.
6. Check yoself!Always review any written transactions or emails before submitting them to your manager. Spellcheck is an amazing tool. If the submission is very important, ask a colleague to review it before hitting the send button. Ensure that the language is fluid and sensible. Try and not abbreviate on professional emails. Some may perceive your intentions different than what you were trying to abbreviate. For example; “Ass. Manager”.
7. Smile and dance!Being Professional does not mean that you have to be boring or lack personality. In the hospitality industry, personality is a key to success. It’s important to smile and treat your coworkers and management as if they were guests.
8. Don’t get cray!Stress management is a skill. If you feel yourself getting upset or not being able control your emotions, try to step away before saying anything you would regret. Sometimes, removing yourself from the moment is better than heading straight in to the fire. You do not want to be labeled as “emotional” or “temperamental” in the beginning stages of your new career.
9. He said, she said! Does it really matter?Gossip is never productive. Try not to involve yourself in the water cooler talk. If it doesn’t benefit you positively, stay away. Sometimes you cannot avoid a ranting co-worker but be cautious and try not to agree or disagree. You do not want to be an accomplice to a negative rumor or widespread panic. Either try to change the subject or avoid the topic as the water can get murky when gossiping.
10. The glass is always half full.If the world is not ending, do not panic. Look at each situation as a positive way to continue learning. If you begin to come to work complaining every day, either find a new profession or create a way to deal and solve the challenges. Your happiness should not end at receiving the job. Be happy every day!

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