Work Ethic

This has been my first week at my new job and it is a very different world.
These past days have been all about trying to figure out a new routine in a working environment that is foreign to me.
My background has always been blue collar, out in the bush or in a shop environment with grease and oil.
My new position is in the government (as an evil Aviation Inspector!) and this environment is quite the opposite. I am new and quite frankly I don't know a thing!
I don't even know how to properly answer the phone and introduce myself...but what I do know is good old fashion work ethic and how to display respect for those who have the experience and have come before me.
I rely heavily on this because I need to earn the trust and respect of my senior colleagues to show me the way around Aviation regulations.
So what is good work ethic? I am glad you asked...
Everyone says its common sense but sometimes I think some reminders are helpful.

Show up a little bit early or a least on time, all the time.
make sure your uniform, I mean your attire is clean and well kept.
Greet people in the morning or bow every chance you get using eye contact.
Show enthusiasm when some one takes the time to help you with something and a comment of thanks goes along way.
Come to class with all your gear or make sure you have paper and pencil in hand to take notes, don't expect someone to supply you with something you should have at the ready.
Apply yourself with focus after given direction, goofing around and unrelated chit chat wastes everybody's time and is disrespectful to your Sifu..I mean supervisor.

I may have crossed from work to kung fu but it was only to remind myself that as a new guy or rookie I still have my work ethic to offer even if I don't have the skill yet. This too, goes for a student in the school.
Lead by example and show good etiquette and work ethic.
You will shine in the eyes of your Sifu( and by no means am I talking about myself, you want to catch the eye of Master Brinker as a diamond in the rough) You will reap the benefit of your hard work and this character quality will benefit the young individual who takes it into adulthood and their budding professional lives.

Okay, I am done lecturing, I just think as a school some basic conduct gets lax and a little reminder is good once in awhile, for me too.

JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta, Canada