14 Maintenance Operations a combination of the two. If the company requires you to have your own tools, ask them to be more specifi c. Normally, the company will require you to have hand tools in some or all of the following categories: ■ Mechanical tools (sockets and wrenches) for 3/8″ and 1/2″ drives, up to 1″ fasteners. ■ Basic electrical tools (screwdrivers, wire strippers and cutters, and basic electrical meters). ■ Basic precision mechanical tools, such as a 0–6″ caliper. ■ Your own toolbox or (eventually) stacked toolboxes. Some companies may also reimburse you up to a certain yearly amount for tools and expenses. Consum- able items (wire, tape, and other nondurable goods) are normally supplied by the company. If you are required to use your own tools, buy high-quality tools. You will use these tools for many years and do not want the hassle of having to repair or replace them because they are of poor quality. 1.5.3 Work Habits Employers want employees who are punctual, depend- able, and responsible. Th ey want their employees to be capable of taking the initiative and working indepen- dently. Other desirable qualities of employees are that they be organized, accurate, and effi cient. A punctual employee is always prompt and on time. Th is includes not only when starting the workday, but also when returning from breaks and lunches. Being dependable means that people can rely on you to keep your word and meet your deadlines. If you are not well, be sure to call in and let the employer know right away. If there are reasons you cannot be at work, discuss this with your employer and work out an alternate arrange- ment. Many people have lost jobs by not checking with their supervisor about time off . Taking the initiative means that you start activities on your own without being told. When you fi nish one task, you do not wait to hear what to do next. Individuals who take the initiative need much less supervision. Th ey have self-motivation, or an inner urge to perform well. Generally, this motivation will drive you to set goals and accomplish them. All of these qualities together show that you are capable of working independently. You are expected to be as accurate and error-free as possible in all that you do. Th is is why you were hired. Complete your work with precision and double-check it to assure accuracy. Your coworkers depend on the careful completion of your tasks. 1.5.4 Time Management A good employee knows how to manage time wisely. Th is includes the ability to prioritize assignments and complete them in a timely fashion. It also involves not wasting time. Time-wasting behaviors include visiting with coworkers, making personal phone calls, texting, sending personal e-mails, or doing other nonwork activi- ties during work hours. While it is important to complete all of your work thoroughly, you must also be able to gauge which assignments are most important. Avoid putting exces- sive eff orts into minor assignments when crucial matters require your attention. Even though you are still accom- plishing work, this is another way of wasting time. 1.5.5 Attitude on the Job Your attitude can often determine the amount of success you have in your job, Figure 1-12. Your attitude is your outlook on life. It is refl ected in how you react to the events and people around you. A smile and courteous behavior can make customers and fellow employees feel good about themselves and you. Clients and customers prefer to do business in friendly environments. Being friendly may take some eff ort on your part, but it does pay off . Steve Good/Shutterstock.com Figure 1-12. Having a positive attitude on the job can help technicians accomplish tasks in an effi cient manner and increase workplace morale. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.