5 Tips for Success in a New Job
Although most employers understand that new hires need time to adapt, they also take note of how you go about it. While there"s a lot to learn - from your co-workers" names to company policies - the things you don"t do in the early stages of employment can be just as important as those you do. So far as to say, failing to adapt to a team"s culture and not asking enough questions are the two largest mistakes made by new employees.Following are some strategies for adjusting to a new position and making an immediate, positive impact on your team. (If you are a long-term employee, it might be good for a refresher.)
1. Respect the culture of the workplace
There"s nothing more embarrassing for new staff than sticking out like a sore thumb, whether by dressing too casually or being the last to arrive at the office. Once you start at a new organisation observe how the successful people behave and interact with others. If you have the opportunity, consider finding a mentor - someone who has been around for a long time - to learn about the organisation"s unwritten rules.
2. Be willing to adjust
You will not doubt encounter internal processes and ways of doing business that are unfamiliar to you. During your first/initial months on the job, resist the impulse/temptation to persuade workmates to "do things your way," even if you think it would be better. Talk to colleagues to understand the reason behind current processes and procedures, and make an effort to learn them. If, after you"ve given them a shot, you still have suggestions for improvement, make sure you earn your team"s trust and respect before sharing your proposal with them.
3. Be clear about your job duties
It"s essential that you are on the same page as your boss from the start, so within the first few days, meet with him or her to discuss your responsibilities and how your position fits into the grand scheme of things. You might ask the following questions:
* What are the immediate priorities and issues that need to be addressed?
* How often and in what form should I provide you with project updates?
* How will my performance be evaluated?
A clear understanding of what"s expected will help you do your job more effectively.
4. Understand communication styles
Pay attention to the manner in which your managers and teammates, as well as staff outside your department, exchange information. Most people have a preferred way to communicate, whether it"s through e-mails, phone calls or face-to-face conversations. If your supervisor expects important information to be detailed in a formal report, sending an informal e-mail can unintentionally create a poor impression or, worse, increase the chance that your message gets lost. So always clarify preferences beforehand.
5. Make an effort to socialise
When starting a new position, many employees concentrate so much on their work that they overlook opportunities for getting to know their workmates. True, you want to send the message that you are a hard-working contributor, but you also want to form meaningful working relationships with your co-workers and manager as soon as possible. Your co-workers can be your strongest allies during your tenure with the organisation and play a key role in your ability to achieve your most important objectives.
Don"t fret too much if you aren"t completely settled into your new job right away. It could take anywhere from several weeks to several months to feel confident and secure in a new job.
You can find more employment related articles, resources and community jobs at Jobseeker.org.au.
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