They say the first three months of your new job are like an extension of your interview, in the sense that is when people will form impressions about you. Of course, impressions can still change later, but it’s best if you start with a good one.
In fact, at a new job, it’s not just about how you are perceived by your manager and your colleagues. If this isn’t your first, you probably have had your share of lessons learnt, often the harder way. You have to ensure you are seen as a good employee, a great team worker but also set firm boundaries that help you maintain a work-life balance.
Clearly, a new job is exciting but there’s also a lot to think about, a lot to do, in order to be seen as an asset to the company.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when starting a new job.
Represent your personal brand well
Firstly, what is personal branding? It is finding your Unique Selling Point, and working on how you want to exhibit your expertise. This means you should use your first week to exude confidence and diligence, the first month to show your skills in your area of expertise and your perennial desire to learn.
Be early
Sometimes, when we are coming from an office culture which was relaxed and friendly, we tend to not realise how things may be different elsewhere. However, it is always best to be early, to work, to meetings, and when meeting deadlines—this can never go wrong.
Be interested
It’s hard to feel very interested in a company, especially if there’s a substantial gap between what you were expected and how things turned out to be. Sometimes, initially, you may be given tasks that are not challenging enough for you and things may be moving at a very slow pace. But if genuine interest is visible in your behaviour that will take you a long way. Ask questions and learn more about the company. It will not just help you stay motivated but also let your manager know you are enthusiastic about working here.
Ask what is expected of you
It is best to have this conversation with your manager right at the start of a new job. Though your manager will likely initiate this conversation themselves, if they don’t, feel free to do so. Discuss your short-term and long-term key responsibilities, ask what resources are available for you and what kind of authority/ownership you can exercise.
Understand how your performance will be measured
Every manager is different and as someone starting a new job, you will have to understand what excites yours. While some managers deeply value disruptive, out-of-the-box ideas, many simply value the structure and discipline of staying on track with the numbers or goals. Observe or simply ask your manager how your performance will be measured in this company.
Remember you are new, not incompetent
The thing with being a new addition to a team is that there is an already existing system that you will have to learn. In all probability, the way this company works, the terminology it uses and the processes they follow will be different from your previous company’s, even if the industry is the same. Sometimes, a newcomer can be undermined by territorial teammates, but you will have to be assertive and confident about your expertise if you are colleague-splained. But pick your work battles wisely and let your work do the talking!
Also Read: What Is Imposter Syndrome And How To Free Your Career From It