10 Things About Client Service They Don't Teach You in School

Nothing can quite prepare you for the working world like your first job. Of course, that means you’re already in the working world. 

Therefore, we’ve put together 10 tips to help you navigate that first job.

1. “Yes” does not always have to be the answer.

It’s perfectly okay to say you don’t know when asked a question. Pretending to have knowledge you don’t have cheats your client, your company and you.

2. Always follow up “I don’t know” with “I can find out.”

By offering to find answers, you can provide your client or co-worker with what they need. This also gives you an opportunity to become an expert on a subject others in your office may not be knowledgeable in, bringing new capabilities to your team.

3. Volunteer to help with everything. Absolutely everything.

I have built desks, cleaned dishes, filed, etc. Performing tasks that don’t fall under your job description (or anyone else’s in the company) can help build relationships with your co-workers. It also builds trust with your superiors and can lead to assignments you never knew you would enjoy. Not to mention, the more often you help your co-workers, the more often they bring you treats. Particularly tacos. And I like tacos.

4. Learn how to communicate with anyone. 

Book smarts mean nothing if you can’t articulate your thoughts. Throwing out KPIs, bounce rates and conversion metrics isn’t impressive if your client doesn’t understand what in the world you are talking about. Sounding smart doesn’t work nearly as well as speaking simply.

5. Learn what everyone does, and how hard those tasks can be.

Understanding the details of every task provides insight into how long each can take, as well as how overloaded your co-workers may be. Providing a realistic timeline for clients and bosses will create both internal and external satisfaction, without running your team into the ground.

6. The people you know will only get your foot in the door.

There’s no doubt the relationships you cultivate in college can get you an interview. However, once in the interview, those relationships give way to your skills, experience and personality.

7. Work with people you love.

It isn’t easy, but look for a culture you can fit into. Work will not always be enjoyable. However, staying at the office until 1 in the morning becomes a bit more bearable when you are with people who will share a sleep-deprived laugh or two.

8. Your co-workers (and boss) are on social media.

It astounds me how often people don’t realize this. We look at every job candidate’s social media presence and are Facebook friends with all of our co-workers. Think about what you’re posting before you post it and the impression it could have on someone if taken out of context. 

9. Google it.

Believe it or not, you can find nearly every answer you need on Google. Wondering how to fix that formula in Excel? Google it. Researching how many people watched the Super Bowl? Google it. Man’s new best friend.

10. Talk to your boss.

They are normal people, I promise. Bosses only want the best for you and for the company. If you’re struggling, ask for help. If you need more work, ask for it. The best way to improve is to get feedback, and your superior is often the person with the most valuable input. 

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