Let's face it ... anyone can get a job. It's what you do with it once you get it that counts! Whether you're working at the local convenience store or have gotten your foot in the door with the local top-dog lawyer, you really want to do more than grab a check every week or two, right?

The key is going above-and-beyond. My parents often told my sister and me that everyone on the payroll is expected to show up for work or time and to stay until the end of the day — but that if you delivered a little extra, someone would notice. That is as true in 2009 as it was in 1960.

First, make sure you have a complete understanding of your responsibilities and what is expected of you.

Second, get to work on time — EVERY time. If your employer's hours are 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., that means you should be at your work station and ready to work at 8 ... not walking in the door. You are expected to take breaks and go to lunch, that's why they told you about them, but they also expect you to be back at work when it's time.

Third, don't be afraid to ask questions — but make sure you ask someone who KNOWS the correct answer and make make sure you pay attention to what they say.

Fourth, do your job. Do it to the best of your ability and do it that way each and every day.

Fifth, if you get caught up or finished with your task, ask if anyone needs help doing anything. ANYTHING ... empty the trash an if it needs it. Just as my parents told me, someone will pay attention. Those co-workers who view the job as something to take up time will be the ones who call you those sixth-grade names, like "brown-noser" and the like. Those in the office with more important positions, such as approving time cards and signing checks, will observe your efforts and won't make jokes about it. 

If you manage your time from the first day you go to work, you'll begin managing your future.

Here's what I mean ... If you're at work when you're supposed to be and if you don't abuse your breaks and sick days, it will cost your employer less to keep you on the payroll. If you get your work done and then look for other things to do, it will cost your employer less to keep you on the payroll. If you manage your time to allow you to learn other things about working at XYZ Company, it will cost your employer less to keep you on the payroll.

The more you know and the more you can do — especially in a shrinking economy — the more valuable you become to your employer.

Here are a few things to remember:

1. Don't waste the time of others. That means two of you aren't getting your work done.

2. Take a 10-minute break instead of 15

3. If you smoke, be considerate of those who don't. There is no such thing as a "smoke break" and they certainly don't happen two or three times every morning and afternoon. I can promise you — as a supervisor who pays attention — people notice every time you go outside for a "quick" smoke that never lasts less than 20-25 minutes.

4. Ask often if there is anything else you can do or if anyone needs help. 

Work to enjoy your work. You'll find that when you learn the ins and outs, you'll enjoy what you do more. Look for ways to do things better and more efficiently. Be respectful of others and you'll find your value as a member of your company's team increasing on a regular basis ... and most likely, you'll discover the same thing about your paycheck!