SiliconBeat

Hmmm. Is this advice that really needs to be given?

Evidently. ELT, a provider of online legal compliance training based in San Francisco has put out a self-described “funny but wise” tip sheet that offers “tough love” advice to the
graduating class of 2008, a group “celebrated for their technological savvy but woefully
unschooled in the customs of the corporation.”

In addition to the amusing but we’re assuming obvious suggestion that recent graduates just landing their first corporate jobs avoid the practice of rating their new bosses in the same way they have “professors, friends and random faces and bodies on social networking sites,” the tip sheet warns cubicle-dwelling worker newbies:

• “Beware the provocative T-shirt slogans exploring race, religion, politics and sex. As for underwear, wear anything you want, top and bottom, because you should be the only one who sees it.” (Possible exception: if your underwear matches your flag lapel pin.)
• “Your managers aren’t your friends. Friends forgive and forget. Managers make constant judgments, and express their opinions in your pay and performance reviews.” (Possible exception: if your boss is George W. Bush.)
• “There’s no such thing as a small lie, or a minor financial irregularity. When it comes to spending your company’s money, never take liberties. Fudging a line item on your expense report is stealing - plain and simple - and your employer will see it that way.” (Possible exception: if you are a member of Congress.)

All of this presupposes that you’ve found a new job in the first place, which might be a bit harder this year than last. And if graduate school is in your future, party on.