When you work in an organization, you're part of a team. Even if you're the only one DOING your particular job, all the folks need to do their part in order to make it work.
When I took the job with the State, I got a crash course in teamwork, official style. Working with bailiffs, clerks, judges, attorneys, well, it's a different world from the freelance one I'd been inhabiting. When we're part of a team, we have to be that much more conscientious of others and aware of our demeanor. It's not all about us. I know, I know. It's a surprise sometimes to realize that not everyone cares about the minutiae of our lives, but it's true. They just want to make sure the job gets done and that we're not going to hinder it. Yep. Really.
Pay attention to your colleagues, make sure you're seeing your job in the light they do and respond accordingly. Ask politely for things you need, offer your card unfailingly every time you walk into a new courtroom. Keep your attitude positive. You never know who's watching - and who they know and who they talk to. Skills are all well and good - and we should continually polish ours - but the packaging is important too. Be punctual, pleasant, and professional.
And as they say, remember, there is no "I" in team.
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