The Vine News

Do you make the first pot of coffee in the morning? That could mean a lot for your career.

I know you are reading the headline of this article and wondering “what does coffee have to do with my career?” Well, there’s an answer for that.

There are certain things that help you keep a job and maintain good standing with your current employer. These include showing up for work on time, contributing in meetings, getting your job done, and making your bosses job easier in any way possible. But there are other ways to help cement your employment status and show that you have the company’s best interest at heart.

Here are just a few:

Make The First Pot of Coffee. Granted, most people make the first pot of coffee because, well, they really want some coffee and it hasn’t been made yet. But being the one who makes the first pot of coffee regardless of whether you consume it or not shows that you care about others and take initiative. If this becomes your reputation around the office, you can be seen as dependable and trustworthy. These two characteristics are not easily expendable.

Be The Last To Leave The Office. Are you shutting your computer down at 4:45 and racing out the door by 4:59? If so, ask yourself what image you may be giving to the rest of your team members and fellow employees. Probably not a good one, especially if others are still plugging away.
Instead, focus on your tasks at hand and stay until the task is done. This isn’t to say work overtime or tackle huge projects after hours, but show your dedication by working through the clock reading 5:00. In track and field we used to call that “running through the finish line.” Finish strong and show your dedication!

Replace The Office Water Cooler. Similar to the coffee pot rule, this too shows that you are considerate of others and can be relied upon. Honestly, it’s a job that no one likes to do. The bottle is heavy, awkwardly shaped, and trying to line it up just right is almost as tough as putting thread through a needle! But if you take the challenge head first consistently and without fuss or fanfare, you can assure yourself that someone will appreciate it.

These are just a few tips that can help you at the office. Do you have any other “Career Clinching” tips to share? Share below and let’s keep the discussion going!

Joey V. Price is an experienced Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and founder of Push Consultant Group, LLC. He has been featured in Ebony Magazine, CNN.com, Monster.com, CareerBuilder.com, and more.  Contact him on the web at www.pushconsultantgroup.com, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/pushjobs, or by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .