FIRSThand

This was written by a FIRSTEP Work Recovery client on 10/15/2011.

"Being here at FIRSTEP, I have learned so much about being a good employee. But what makes someone an employee that an employer is looking for? I have worked hard at being that type of employee, mostly so when I get out I will be able to hold a job and excel at whatever job I choose to do.

If I were the employer, interviewing someone for a position in my company, the first thing I would look at is how they present themselves. First impressions are vital when going for an interview. I would want them to look put-together, dressed to impress, clean cut someone who looks like they take care of themselves, so they will care about their job as well. I would want them to come in confident, not shy, and ready to take on the job 100%. But besides the way they present themselves, there are many traits I would be looking for in an employee. Definitely I would want them to be a quick learner. Someone you can show them how to do the job and they will catch on quick. Someone who pays attention and learns the first time. I wouldn't want to have to show them 15 times how to do something before they catch on. I would also want them to be well organized. Nobody wants a slob working for their company. They need to be on top of their game, and prepared at all times. Not digging through their piles trying to find whatever it is they need. Another thing I would want is for my employee to be punctual. Being on time is an important thing to employers. It shows responsibility, and also that they are available to work the hours that I need them in my business. That they are ready to take on whatever I may need them to do. But back to responsibility – that is key in an employee. I wouldn't want someone I couldn't trust working in my company. We are learning responsibility here at FIRSTEP and that is something I definitely needed to work on so I am thankful for that. It is just so important in your job, but also in everyday living.

Depending on the job that you are applying for, I would want them to have qualities I'm looking for. For example, if I am looking for a secretary for my front office, I would want them to have good people skills, know how to use a multi-line phone and skills on the computer. They would need to know how to do filing and set up an appointment book.

Also, a good employee would have ideas on how to make my business even better. Employers are always looking for new ideas on how to improve their place of work. So it is always a plus to learn as much as you can about the company so you will be able to make suggestions. As long as you always try to do your best, you will excel in your job. Employers pay attention to the small things even if you thing they aren't. They notice your hard work and it will pay off in the long run. If you will just use common sense in the work place, things will be better. Don't get into the drama of your job. Try to stay out of everyone else's business and just work hard, doing your own job. Worry about getting your job done right the first time. A boss doesn't want to have to follow behind you and correct your mistakes constantly. They want you to pay attention, take your time and do it right. Stay organized and don't let your work get behind. You don't want to always be playing catch up. If anything, do extra work, help others and your boss will take notice of you so you can move up in the company. Nobody likes being the low man in charge, but you have to show that your trustworthy, a hard worker, and especially responsible to get to that position.

Before I never cared about what my employer thought about me. I thought they were always in the wrong. Being sober has showed me a completely different perspective in my work place. Working hard makes me feel good about myself and gives me a sense of pride at the end of the day, and I really like that. Now I know what kind of employee I want to be now and when I leave here and I'm thankful for that."

More coming soon