Take that job--and love it!

Here's how to glide through your first real paying job without a hitch....

Congrats! You've scored a summer gig as babysitter/camp counselor/ burger flipper. But, wait. Nobody's ever told you what's really expected at the workplace. Yikes! But no worries. Whether you're dog-walking, helping out at your mom's office or teaching hip-hop at the rec, you can work that first job like a seasoned pro.

DEPENDABLE=COMMENDABLE

A lot of girls don't truly understand that when you have a job, the first rule is to be there on time, rain or shine! Write down those work hours and allow time for surprises, like a late bus. You're running behind? Call the boss to explain the sitch, and give her an estimated time of arrival. Offer to make up the missed time. P.S. Don't make a habit of this.

OH, BEHAVE!

Being polite seems like a no-brainer, but tons of worker bees forget to show basic respect. Besides that, always be honest and fair--and treat co-workers how you'd like to be treated.

LISTEN AND LEARN

Pay careful attention to instructions, so you'll absorb everything you need to know to do your job. If you still don't totally understand something, don't be afraid to ask questions. Being inquisitive is not a sign of a complete doofus, but of someone who is eager to do well.

NO PJs PERMITTED

So you're a dock helper. Still, don't show up looking like you just rolled out of bed. Even if you're only required to wear shorts and a tee, pick presentable clothing. Save the ripped jeans and "Boys Are Stupid" shirt for weekends.

DOWN FOR THAT

Occasionally, your boss will ask you to change up the way you've been doing something. Instead of freezing at the suggestion or, worse, talkin' smack, show that you're willing to be flex.

ABOVE AND BEYOND

Doing your job is one thing, but showing initiative and being motivated really makes you shine. Say you have a stint hocking candied apples at the county fair. No one knows how many boxes of apples are left? Go count. Maybe this isn't in your job description, but doing more than is expected of you will make you a stand-out employee.

TAKE RESPONSIBILITY

We're all destined to make mistakes. But when it happens on the job, it's important to immediately 'fess up and accept the blame. Sure, it's hard to admit a goof, but you'll score major points for maturity and showing that you take your job seriously. Plus, if you come forward pronto, you might prevent a minor boo-boo from becoming a major nightmare.

HAVE A POSI-TUDE

Slap on that happy face! Having an enthusiastic, cheerful attitude at work makes you a likeable employee and, even better, keeps your own psyche in check. Your new tee just got splattered with red juice by a 3-year-old in your charge at the tot center? All in a day's work.

In fact, a sunny disposition combined with all the other job pointers we've laid out for you makes any work day easier to deal with (no more clock-watching). Is that your picture we see posted on that Employee of the Month plaque?