After dry cleaning your best suits, taking time off work, and participating in multiple rounds of interviews, you finally land an awesome new job. After all the hard work, it’s only natural that you have high expectations for your first day. But whether it’s your first job out of school or the tenth, there are always some bumps in the road to getting settled. The good news is that it will get easier, and by following some simple tips, you can ensure you make a smooth start in your new role.
Often, companies have a well-documented induction process for new hires that introduces them to their team, the role and its responsibilities, and how their roles fit into the wider company and organization. If yours doesn’t, consider requesting one. Providing an induction can help you get on board quickly and set you up for success.
If you’re going to be working remotely, try to connect with your team as soon as you start your new job. This is not only a great way to get to know your colleagues better, but it will also give you a sense of what it will be like to work with them on a daily basis. If possible, try to meet them in person during your first week, or at least get on video chats with them as soon as you can.
Once you start your new job, it’s important to keep the focus on what you can contribute and how you can create value for the organization. During your first few weeks, you should avoid making too many early demands, and remember that trust is earned, not given.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. This is a great opportunity to show your new team that you’re eager to learn, and that you’re not afraid of being vulnerable. Ultimately, this will help you feel more confident and comfortable in your role, and it may also lead to some positive feedback from your manager.
It’s also a good idea to prioritize learning, visibility, and growth. If you’re not pushing yourself, your career will stagnate. Whether it’s attending a department meeting or a training class, do whatever you can to get out of your comfort zone. You’ll thank yourself later for stepping outside of your comfort zone and pushing yourself to succeed in your new role.
It’s also a good idea to be mindful of the culture and habits you’re coming into. Take note of how things are done, and try to understand why they are that way before you make changes. Otherwise, you could find yourself in hot water for breaking company policies and procedures that have been in place for years. This will help you avoid being seen as a disruption and instead be viewed as an asset.