- Aim to make a great first impression by doing even more research about the company in your first few weeks than you did when you were preparing for the interview.
- Remember that you’re a new hire and regardless of your skill level, a new job is a daunting experience. Don’t feel like you have to excel at absolutely everything straight away.
- Ask for help early. Your first few months are expected to be your periods of greatest learning. If your manager is any good, chances are that they expect you to be unsure of things at this stage, so don’t be afraid to ask questions
- Perhaps even more critical than asking for help early is asking for help from the right people. You will quickly build a reputation as a thoughtful worker if you carefully consider who in your organization is best-suited to answer your questions and otherwise render aid.
- Because you’re bombarded by a lot of information in your early days, as you ask questions and seek clarity, remember to write down as many things as you can whether its general instructions, login information, passcodes, or a to-do-list. First so you don’t have to ask over and over, but also because you’ll be documenting a repository of intelligence that you can pass down to newer joiners on your team.
- Accept that minor errors are all part of the learning process. So try not to panic too much when you make a mistake and instead focus on learning from these so you can perform better moving forward.
- Keep the “When I worked at X company, we used to do Y ” and “How come you guys are not doing Z?” comments out of your vocabulary. In the same way that your current partner would rather not hear about your ex, your present employers will usually not want to hear about your past company – especially not in a way that positions your present company to look unflattering. Focus instead on learning more about the new environment before offering suggestions framed as tactfully as you can.
- Be on your best behaviour. Late coming, desktop distractions, requesting avoidable time-off work and turning in deliverables late do not serve to position you correctly.
- Because fear and imposter syndrome are based on feelings and not facts, try setting short-term smart metrics to more objectively appraise your performance.
- Don’t be afraid to set healthy boundaries early on. Once you set the example that you’re willing to do certain things, it’s hard to go back. This applies to everything from taking on unrealistic deadlines, biting off more than you can chew with working overtime and at odd hours, how personal you’re willing to allow work relationships to go, and how you handle requests that you consider unethical.
- Learning the unwritten rules that define the work culture is key to success. Observing everything from what the acceptable dress code is, to work hours and preferred communication channels will help you better navigate and thrive in the new workplace.
- Conventional wisdom will tell you that what it takes to be a superstar is being great at your job. Doing good work is fantastic, but real workplace warriors know that success lies in taking the time to build and nurture relationships throughout the company– upwards, across functions, and downwards (with your direct and indirect report).
- When the opportunity to take on tasks that really allow you to shine presents themselves, rise to the occasion. Especially when they scare you.
Love the post!
Thanks Alex!
This is good. I loveeeet!
Thanks for reading Adun!
Terverrrrr is about to demystify Friday the 13th belief!
Thank you, Terv ❤️
Thanks for reading Igbudu!
Awesome post. Simple and practical.
Thanks so much for reading!
Thank you Terver ❤️
Thanks for reading Ajoke!