Starting a new job? There are few things more exciting than being told ‘you got the job!’ But when the start date arrives, it can be daunting. Here’s how to crush it:
- Remember just getting into the swing of things at a new company is a huge accomplishment. Take a deep breath, soak it all in and give yourself time to adjust. Enjoy the ride.
- It’s important to figure out how to succeed as quickly as possible. Although every workplace has its own culture and its own markers for success, there are a few universal steps that can be taken to get ahead. Find your niche, fill the gap and make a difference.
- Identify everyone’s expectations. Make it a priority to get to know those you will be working with, including what they need from you and how they would like to work together. It’s best to be clear on their expectations from the get-go.
- It’s OK not to know everything: In fact, it shows humility. Ask questions and understand the business before trying to impose ideas. Use these critical first few weeks to absorb everything you can – and then work your magic!
- Be a problem solver. Proactive problem solvers are valuable in every business. You should present a clear solution to the problem and your manager can make decisions about the next steps once you have explained what you’ve already done to solve the issue on your own.
- Ask for and give feedback. Your goal is to show that you care about how you can improve. At the same time, you need to learn how to give both positive and negative feedback professionally. If you can speak honestly about your company’s problems in a way that doesn’t place personal blame on anyone and can offer real suggestions for change, you might gain a reputation as a troubleshooter, which will help you succeed.
- Go on an inter-workplace safari excursion, offer friendly conversation and get to know and connect with your co-workers. Your innocence in a new workplace is a valuable thing so find the lay of the land and introduce yourself to everyone you meet. Not only will strong relationships enhance your overall work experience, but the faster you can go from just being a new hire to being someone on the team, the better.
- Sink into your nerves! Everyone knows how it feels to start a new job – feelings of apprehension are normal; it shows you care. After the initial exhilaration you experience when you receive a job offer, that excitement can quickly turn to anxiety. Fortunately, you’re not alone. Countless people before you have started new jobs and survived. Many of them grew to love their positions, even if it was a little (or a lot) scary at first.
You can do it, we believe in you!