-As a staff, your expectations at the beginning are low. So don't freak out if it takes you a while to get the hang of stuff. However, make sure to do it right after the 2nd or 3rd time someone tells you how to do something. I once had a manager tell me he expected to explain things to a new staff maybe 2 or 3 times. It's normal.
-After every major engagement (2 weeks or more) ask for feedback from your Senior. Just be aware that once feedback is given (e.g. make sure to always keep your open items list updated and organized) they now have that expectation of you.
-Write everything down and always have a notepad with you..
-Don't worry about standing out your first year. First year of auditing is like being a freshman in college. Everyone's about the same level. Only after the second year do people start distinguishing themselves. There are some that will get kudos the first year (e.g. working on a crazy hard client or being in charge of some leadership activity), but for the most part performance is rewarded for consistency. So work hard and you'll get yours
-Pass the CPA exam ASAP
-Adapt to your Senior. Are they micromanagers or do they let you be independent? The former has lower expectations of people he/she manages, and the latter has higher expectations IMO.
-Don't become a workaholic. Stay balanced and take care of yourself.
-Accept the fact that you will be auditing cash and AR. Some staff have the impression they should be working on important stuff right out of the gates. Learn to crawl first, THEN you can climb Mount Everest (eventually).Yes, this applies to all the cool stuff you've heard in recruiting (i.e. international rotations, rotations in other service lines, etc.).
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