You'll succeed in your new job by doing the best you can, regardless of whether the job is a temporary position or a professional job in your chosen field. Here are a few tips for the new employee:

Be a dependable employee! This lets your supervisor know your job is important to you.

Master your tasks and do more than is expected. Avoid "it's not my job" thinking.

Keep the lines of communication open. Inform your supervisor of how you're progressing and ask for regular feedback on your performance.

If any assignments are unclear, ask for clarification instead of proceeding in the wrong direction because you are fearful of looking foolish.

Enjoy the company of your coworkers. Get to know and be known by others in your work environment... your professional growth depends on it.

As a newcomer, avoid "office politics." Maintain confidentiality and avoid gossip.

Ask for advice and help from others, and let them know they can depend on you.

Learn the art of tact when working on a team, which includes being receptive to others' input and knowing when to compromise.

Be assertive, self-confident and visible. Think of the three "E s" - enthusiasm, energy and excellence.

Make use of the employee assistance programs offered at your workplace to help find your balance. Your employer is your partner in finding balance between the world of work and your personal and family life.

Practice
Practice answering interview questions and practice your responses to the typical job interview questions and answers most employers ask. Think of concrete examples you can use to highlight your skills. Providing evidence of your successes is a great way to promote your candidacy. Also have a list of your own questions to ask the employer ready.

Research
Do your homework about the employer and the industry so you are ready for the question What do you know about this company? Know the interviewer's name and use it during the job interview. If you're not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. Try to relate what you have learned about the company when answering questions.

Get Ready
Make sure your interview attire is neat, tidy and appropriate for the type of firm you are interviewing with. Bring a nice portfolio with copies of your resume. Include a pen and paper for note taking.

Be On Time
Be on time for the interview. On time means five to ten minutes early. If need be, take some time to drive to the interview location ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there. Here's more on preparing for an interview.

Stay Calm
During the job interview try to relax and stay as calm possible. Remember that your body language says as much about you as your answers to the questions. Proper preparation will allow you to exude confidence. Take a moment to regroup. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question (active listening) before you answer and pay attention - you will be embarrassed if you forget the question. Check out these tips for avoiding job interview stress to help stay calm. Also review our interview tips for introverts.

Show What You Know
Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions.  When discussing your career accomplishments match them to what the company is looking for. Use examples from your research when answering questions, “I noticed that when you implemented a new software system last year, your customer satisfaction ratings improved dramatically. I am well versed in the latest technologies from my experience with developing software at ABC, and appreciate a company who strives to be a leader in its industry.” Here's how to make a match between your expertise and the company's requirements.

Follow Up
Always follow-up with a thank you note reiterating your interest in the position. You can also include any details you may have forgotten to mention during your interview. If you interview with multiple people send each one a personal thank you note. Send your thank you note (email is fine) within 24 hours of your interview.