You did well in your job interviews and now the time has come to prove yourself. What can you do during the first 2 or 3 months in your new job to insure success? How do you handle a new work environment, a new team, new company policies, new computer systems … new, new, new!
Whenever you get a job offer, it is a very encouraging and positive time. You know you have what it takes, and now someone else in the business world recognizes your talents. But, that feeling of elation may change the first day at work when you are expected to dive in and perform in a job environment that is unfamiliar, one that is made up of people you do not know.
Here are some things to think about:
Learn the culture. Listen a lot and watch what goes on, so that you will begin to know how things are done. Get to know your co-workers, and ask questions about how things work. Become aware of business practices and guidelines. If the dress code is suits and ties, do not wear jeans and sneakers. Get to know your colleagues, find a trusted co-worker.
Know your boss and adjust your style slightly so that it is not at odds with his/hers. Determine what is important to your boss and what can wait? Ask for scheduled one-on-one meetings with your boss, so that you can find out what your boss thinks you are doing well and what you need to improve. On-going communications are key to good working relationships with your boss and others.
Determine what is expected of you. Set goals with your boss. Put together a development plan with time frames to make self-improvements. Take the initiative when you can and when it makes sense to do so. Manage expectations and be careful not to over-promise. It is better to under-promise and over-deliver. This will pleasantly surprise your boss.
These are just a few of the things that will help you adjust to a new work environment, and become successful in your new job!
