You've got a summer job, now what?

School's out and summer is just beginning. And for a lot of ec's readers that means summer jobs. Whether it's an internship or just a way to make some money, the way you behave on the job is important. You may not believe it, but even how you go about your work says something to the world about the God you profess to follow. If you want your summer job to be a rousing success, both professionally and spiritually, check out these tips:

• Be on time. If your shift starts at a certain time, be there and ready to work at that time.

• Don't clock out early. You're scheduled to work a certain amount of time. Do it. Don't bug out early and leave your coworkers to pick up the pieces.

• Work hard. Sure, a few goofy moments and fun times can be part of the job, but don't be the employee who doesn't carry his or her share of the burden.

• Treat others with respect. It doesn't matter if it's your boss, the coworker you can't stand, or a customer. Be polite, respectful, and use such words as ma'am and sir.

• Be excellent. Your job may not be astoundingly important in the big scheme of things, but how you complete the tasks you're given is. Let the quality of your work speak for itself. Do what's asked of you and do it well.

• Be kind. You don't have to be a push-over, but you do need to guard your tongue and strive to reach out to others with kindness—even when they are the most annoying people you've ever laid eyes on.

• Be enthusiastic. Take some time to enjoy what you're doing—even if you have to simply find parts of the job that you absolutely love. Let your positive attitude make a difference among your coworkers. Managers say that enthusiastic employees work hard, learn quickly and aren't discouraged by setbacks, They also improve morale and encourage others to work hard as well. But know that enthusiasm can have some not-so-good effects, especially if you're so enthusiastic that you start a lot of projects or assignments without ever really finishing anything. There's something to be said for seeing something through to the end.

• Follow the rules. That doesn't mean that you become overbearing or a stickler, but it does mean that you do everything within your power to personally follow the rules set out by the company or manager you are working for. Yes, some rules seem dumb. Some seem downright crazy, but they are likely there for a reason. Do your best to honor these rules without becoming a nuisance or "goody-two-shoes" to your coworkers.

For more information on why your attitude on the job is important, check out "Employee of the Month" by Debra Parker on page 6 of the June 2009 issue of ec.