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Business Skills – Thriving in Your First Job

Business Skills - Thriving in Your First Job

Thriving in Your First Job – Episode Summary

In this essential Business Skills episode from The Print University, Ryan McAbee and Pat McGrew provide first-time employees with a practical roadmap for success in their new roles—whether on the shop floor or in the front office. Perfect for printing industry training programs for new employees, print shop employee onboarding templates, or outsourced training for print production staff, this course delivers timeless advice that helps new hires fit in, level up, and thrive.

The episode tackles common onboarding gaps—professional appearance, punctuality, attitude, and communication. Ryan and Pat stress the importance of showing up on time, dressing appropriately for your work environment, managing your schedule proactively, and understanding your employer’s expectations. They also address how generational diversity and post-COVID workplace shifts have changed what it means to be a team player in today’s print shop.

Key soft skills like time management, attention to detail, clear communication, openness to feedback, and a willingness to learn are all emphasized. The hosts also recommend asking questions about policies (e.g., devices, breaks, overtime), shadowing other departments, and exploring company-sponsored education or career development programs.

By highlighting real-world tips—like who to notify when you’re running late, how task timing affects profitability, and the impact of workplace flexibility—this episode helps new employees turn nervousness into confidence and become indispensable teammates.

You Will Learn:

  • What employers expect from new hires in behavior, attitude, and communication

  • How to manage time, receive feedback, and navigate workplace diversity

  • Why small habits like punctuality and curiosity lead to bigger opportunities

  • How to clarify job expectations, policies, break schedules, and career paths

  • Tips for building relationships, asking questions, and adapting to shop culture

Who This Course Is For:

First-time employees, recent graduates, interns, and anyone supporting printing industry training programs for new employees, print shop employee onboarding templates, or outsourced training for print production staff

Time to Watch:

Approx. 30 minutes