Reflections with Placement Managers

Everybody needs to start somewhere. Tapping into the experience of managers or senior team members can be a great way to develop professional skills and grow as a professional in your field. Talent News sat down with placement managers from Sydney Trains Network Maintenance Division and Transport NSW Public Engagement and Affairs to share their and observations and advice.

Office etiquette

How young professionals conduct themselves both in (and out of) the office does not go unnoticed. Common mistakes include an over reliance on texting to communicate, and overuse of phones during office hours. One manager recommends to ‘always phone as a courtesy when requesting a sick day, and to leave the phone untouched during meetings unless urgent’. While other managers may be okay with texts over calls, the best practice is to clarify at the beginning of a placement what communication style your manager prefers.

Being mindful of how you present yourself is equally important. This includes what you wear to the office, with some managers noticing young professionals wearing outfits that could be deemed too casual. ‘You are building your career, so as part of your brand, presentation is important. This could also extend to being messy at your desk, which could project as being unorganised.’ While typical office attire is normally a safe option, make sure to have a conversation with your managers in regards to dress expectations as these may vary across offices.

Managing up

Being proactive and accountable builds good rapport with managers, and many appreciate the initiative and drive of ELTP participants in managing up and providing support. Continually checking in, coming prepared to meetings and being flexible towards others’ schedules goes a long way. ‘Show initiative in your placement. Challenge yourself to move out of your comfort zone...the more questions you ask people, the more you know. Every question is a good question, never be afraid to ask.’

Stretch to grow

‘Making mistakes is the best way to learn early on in your career.’ Managers want to see young professionals succeeding and growing, with a shared sentiment of always backing oneself and being confident in your own decisions. ‘Sometimes I see a young professional hesitating when presented with a challenging situation, but more often than not, they are capable of handling the challenge’.

Finding a mentor is also ideal for those wanting extra guidance early on in their career. Resources such as Talent Connect are available to help ELTP participants find a mentor relevant to their field within the cluster.

When in doubt at work, use the support network around you for help and guidance, and where necessary confirm what works best with your placement manager. This network includes ELTP, your manager, professionals within your team and other ELTP participants. Keep being proactive and mindful of yourself and your team, branch out to expand your network, and take mistakes as opportunities to learn. With these in mind, your career as a young professional should be off to a great start.

Everybody needs to start somewhere. Tapping into the experience of managers or senior team members can be a great way to develop professional skills and grow as a professional in your field. Talent News sat down with placement managers from Sydney Trains Network Maintenance Division and Transport NSW Public Engagement and Affairs to share their and observations and advice.

Office etiquette

How young professionals conduct themselves both in (and out of) the office does not go unnoticed. Common mistakes include an over reliance on texting to communicate, and overuse of phones during office hours. One manager recommends to ‘always phone as a courtesy when requesting a sick day, and to leave the phone untouched during meetings unless urgent’. While other managers may be okay with texts over calls, the best practice is to clarify at the beginning of a placement what communication style your manager prefers.

Being mindful of how you present yourself is equally important. This includes what you wear to the office, with some managers noticing young professionals wearing outfits that could be deemed too casual. ‘You are building your career, so as part of your brand, presentation is important. This could also extend to being messy at your desk, which could project as being unorganised.’ While typical office attire is normally a safe option, make sure to have a conversation with your managers in regards to dress expectations as these may vary across offices.

Managing up

Being proactive and accountable builds good rapport with managers, and many appreciate the initiative and drive of ELTP participants in managing up and providing support. Continually checking in, coming prepared to meetings and being flexible towards others’ schedules goes a long way. ‘Show initiative in your placement. Challenge yourself to move out of your comfort zone...the more questions you ask people, the more you know. Every question is a good question, never be afraid to ask.’

Stretch to grow

‘Making mistakes is the best way to learn early on in your career.’ Managers want to see young professionals succeeding and growing, with a shared sentiment of always backing oneself and being confident in your own decisions. ‘Sometimes I see a young professional hesitating when presented with a challenging situation, but more often than not, they are capable of handling the challenge’.

Finding a mentor is also ideal for those wanting extra guidance early on in their career. Resources such as Talent Connect are available to help ELTP participants find a mentor relevant to their field within the cluster.

When in doubt at work, use the support network around you for help and guidance, and where necessary confirm what works best with your placement manager. This network includes ELTP, your manager, professionals within your team and other ELTP participants. Keep being proactive and mindful of yourself and your team, branch out to expand your network, and take mistakes as opportunities to learn. With these in mind, your career as a young professional should be off to a great start.

Page published: 01 Jul 2019, 02:00 PM