10 things one should learn in first year of work post MBA

An year gone by is a good time to reflect what one has learnt at work.

My second honest attempt with listicles, the following applies more to ambiguous work situations and is more relevant in places where people trump processes. Basically, if you are into equity research, opt out, your sandwich break is over!

1.     Learn to sit in office

      

You have most probably wasted half of your 20s sitting in lecture halls and college canteens. Learn now to sit in office, like you first learnt to sit in schools.

2.     Random work generator

      

In every industry/organisation there is a set of random work, read initiatives, you can do from day 1 and maintain some hygiene visibility. Identify them and get cracking through your idle time, till someone finds out you are around and considers you worthy of doing some actual work.

3.     Work through people, or get out

      

It is not about being a jerk and desperate networking. It is about recognising people around you and being genuinely interested in their work. You can start with a Hi!

4.     Earn respect.

      

Always.

5.     Develop Skills at fast pace

      

Develop CV at even faster pace

6.     Aukaat Assesment

      

Analyze around for the standards of work being followed. Adjust your approach and standards accordingly. Don’t unnecessarily slog to cross the Ts or dot the Is if no one cares. On the other hand, don’t mess up with the fonts and margins of your ppt, if that’s what your life is about.

7.     Manage your manager

      

      

And all the other stakeholders. Whoever said you can not please everyone, certainly didn’t sit for CAT.

8.     Win wars not battles

      

      

Be smart on how you want to push that new idea of yours.

9.     Remember your ultimate purpose

      

      

      

Whenever you decide to chuck your day because oh the dongle is not working, or the manager is too moody, remember you are not here to make a difference to the world (unless you really are); you are here for a paycheck.

10. Finally, never never ever ever never forget your invisible tiara.

      

People stay fucked up in organizations for over years. You don’t get to crib. Bring lots of positive energy in the system; people recognize it when they see it :)