My first 'Last day'

People talk about their first love, first job, first crush, first salary all the time. Well, for a change, let's talk about the first 'Last day at work'. Today is my last day at my first job. Last day at work can be as eventful as the first day - exit interview, last day email, formalities, surrendering the office paraphernalia, bidding adieu to colleagues, to name a few. Leaving a job for the very first time in my life, I'm having mixed feelings. While I'm sad about leaving this wonderful place, I'm equally excited about the new opportunity.

As I introspect my stay in my very first company, I definitely had a fantastic time here. I got to be a part of one of the leaders in the IT industry. I got to work closely with some of the brightest folks in this industry. I got to work in an area which is selling like hot cakes in today's world. I got enough opportunities to enhance my skills and expertise. I got to work under one of the best managers who gave me enough support and freedom to enjoy my work. I got appreciation when I did something good and I also got beatings on my mistakes, making me better at my job every single time. I got to work with people from all across the globe. I made a lot of friends with whom I wish to keep in touch even after leaving this place. We worked hard and partied harder. I never had Monday morning blues and that, I think, sums it all up. If I look back to my very first day at work, I feel, I have turned from a naive college grad to a disciplined and a mature corporate individual. 

If I were to summarize my lessons in this job, here are the top 6 things that come to my mind:

1. It's not just your technical knowledge that's going to make you successful in your job. A lot also depends on your attitude, interpersonal skills, team work, motivation, humility, and your ability to handle criticism.

2. Don't make enemies and don't burn bridges. You never know when you will need the other person's help. So, keep your ego at bay next time you disagree with someone.

3. Don't reveal more than what's required. Learn to keep secrets. There's a lot of sensitive information flowing around in the corporate world and spreading it might put you and others in harm's way.

4. Share your knowledge with others. Not only will that make things clearer to you, but will also make others open up when you have something to ask. Seek help from others when required without hesitation.

5. You will find a lot of negativity around you. Don't let that hamper your work. If you are not happy about something, speak out and try your best to rectify the problem. If things still don't work out, move on rather than spreading more negativity.

6. Speak up what you want. People are busy. So, don't assume that things will be done for you by others. Say what you want clearly and keep following up until closure.

With all these great lessons and wonderful experiences, I conclude my first 'last day' and look forward to my second 'first day' at work.