If you are currently on co-op, you are now officially at least two months in. This means that the training wheels you had on since orientation are off. Now that you know your way around the office, you can begin to really leave your mark.
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Become friends with people in your office
Sitting at your desk quietly and eating lunch with friends in neighboring offices may seem comfortable, but work becomes so much better when you genuinely get to know the people you work with. It’s a lot easier to go to someone for help if you know them personally. You can also learn all of the office nuances like where the good snacks are and how to use the intimidating espresso machine. Even if you are the youngest person on your team, you can make really good friends at work that you’ll stay in touch with after your co-op. It is also a great way to make connections that could lead to a mentor for your future career goals.
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Make processes more efficient
A great way to go above and beyond on co-op is to improve the tasks you do everyday. It could be as simple as making a template for future co-ops to use or building a macro that generates the work you are doing a lot faster. Making life easier for your team will be appreciated no matter what.
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Make suggestions at meetings
It’s scary to speak up during a meeting, but if you have a good idea, speak up! You are invited to sit it on those meetings for a reason and may have a perspective that no one else has considered. This can also lead to some very interesting ad hoc projects.
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Own up to your mistakes
Everyone messes up at some point. What defines your mistake is whether or not you take responsibility or sweep it under the rug. Also, try not to make the same mistakes twice! If you mess up an email, proofread better next time. If you miss a deadline, start setting reminders on Outlook.
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Know where you need to improve
When you check in with your boss, ask for feedback and recognize where you know you can do better. No one is perfect. Your boss will be impressed that you are constantly trying to advance to the next level and reach new goals, whether it is using Excel more efficiently, learning more about a particular subject, or even managing your time better. You are still young and have a lot to learn.
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Offer to help other teams
If you find yourself having a lot of extra time on your hands, take the initiative and see if nearby teams need help. Try to look for a team that does something you are particularly interested in. Most people will be really happy for the extra help. However, don’t put their work above your own managers’ requests.
Most of all, remember to enjoy your co-op. Six months can go by really fast, so make the most of it!