Last Job Search Guide - Page 35 of 356

Starting Out Strong: Your First Days on the Job

By Liz Hughes

Executive Director

OfficeTeam

For many of us, starting a new job can cause some opening-day jitters. And for good reason. The first impressions people form about you can have a lasting impact. Keep in mind that it's not just what you wear or how you carry yourself that affects your image, but also your work ethic, communication style and ability to adapt to a new corporate culture. Here are some strategies to help you make a great start:

 

Take a break. Taking a week of vacation before you start your new job can help you unwind and clear your head. If a week isn't practical, then at least ensure that you have a restful weekend and a good night's sleep before your first day. Feeling refreshed and relaxed will help you start your new job at your personal best.

Adapt to the corporate culture. Spend at least two weeks studying the culture at your firm. On day one, arrive thirty minutes early and stay a half an hour late, noting how many employees do the same. Is it typical to take projects home? Do co-workers generally prefer to communicate by e-mail, memos, voice mail or face-to-face conversations? How strictly is the dress code observed? When and for how long do people go to lunch? Pay attention to unwritten company rules, and adopt them as your own. Taking note of your new company's culture is especially important the first few weeks, but plan to continue your observations for several months.

 

Clarify expectations. While you likely discussed your job duties with your supervisor during your interview, it's important to develop a more in-depth understanding of her expectations as soon as possible. Here are some questions you may want to ask during the first several days:

•  What is the mission of the company and the department, and how does my job fit in? If you did your pre-interview research diligently, you'll have an overall knowledge of the company's direction, but you'll now need to confirm your understanding and find out how you can support those goals.

•  What are the immediate priorities and issues that need to be addressed?

•  How often, and in what format should I provide project updates?

•  How will my performance be evaluated?

Meeting with your manager during the first few days on the job can also provide you with additional information about her personality and workstyle, helping you to mold your interactions to her preferences. You may also want to ask for feedback on your performance three or four weeks into the position to make sure you're on the right track.

 

Follow the leader. During your first few weeks, make an effort to identify the firm's star employees. Start by reading recent issues of the company newsletter. Top performers can be recognized by their results as well as their personal qualities - they are typically the most innovative, dynamic and motivated workers. These are the people you want to emulate.

Be a team player. Get to know your fellow employees and their roles, but avoid excessive chattiness. Ask coworkers for their ideas or suggestions on projects to open lines of communication and establish yourself as part of the team.

Don't rock the boat - at least not at first. Even if you think your department needs to undergo major changes, wait until you've established a credible reputation and rapport with your colleagues before suggesting an overhaul. The support of your fellow employees is critical to your success, and if you alienate them - or your boss - by pushing for miracles overnight, you may end up doing more harm than good.