In addition to skills and on-the-job training, a successful tradesperson has a strong work ethic and a professional attitude. Good professional work habits benefit even the most experienced technicians. While you learn skills to enter the trade field, start practicing good work habits while you train or apprentice. On-the-job training exposes you to real-life work situations, testing your skills and professionalism.
No matter where you are in your education or training, use these four professional work habits of successful tradespeople and develop a strong work ethic.
In the classroom and at the jobsite, get in the habit of presenting solutions in addition to problems. Offering solutions to problems or issues shows critical thinking and leadership. Problem solving helps you earn trust from your colleagues and superiors. When you solve problems, be sure to observe, listen and ask questions so you fully understand the issue.
Consider offering a few solutions when working within a team or directly with customers. Take advantage of more experienced teammates or supervisors by asking for their advice on solutions. Gain additional knowledge and understanding from others that can help you solve similar problems in the future.
Keep your skills sharp and gain more experience by participating in continuous learning. As you continue to learn valuable skills for your trade or industry, you learn more techniques and get familiar with new technologies. While working on a jobsite, don’t be afraid to say, “I don’t know.” Learn from others by asking for help from teammates or supervisors.
A desire to learn shows passion and a commitment to doing good work. Look for new or additional learning opportunities to develop or practice skills. Consider asking instructors to connect you with industry leaders or local trade organizations. Gain access to new opportunities or learning workshops by getting involved with professional trade or networking organizations.
Kindness goes a long way in every trade industry. As a skilled tradesperson, interacting and working with customers may be a large part of your job. Treat every customer, teammate and supervisor with respect and kindness. Good customer service tends to play a huge role in every trade field. Polite, clear communication helps build trust with customers, managers and project owners.
If you find yourself working within a team, avoid gossiping on the job─even on breaks. A positive attitude lets others see you as a dependable team player. Keep personal issues at home, even if you become friends with your colleagues. Don’t let issues outside of work affect or influence your job.
Get in the habit of writing or recording dates and information. Learn an organization system or create your own way to stay organized using a calendar, a planner or a mobile app. Even if you use a company- or job-provided time tracking or project management system, keep your own records to prevent clerical errors.
Keep your equipment organized, as well, by properly storing and cleaning tools after using them. Have tools ready to use at the start of each day or before starting a project. Good organization preserves and protects your equipment, so you can get the most use out of your tools.
Interested in technical school training? Learn more about the trade programs at Apex Technical School.
*Apex Technical School and its instructors are licensed by the State of New York, New York State Education Department.
Disclaimer: Apex Technical School provides training for entry-level jobs. Not everything you may read about the industry is covered in our training programs.
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