A friend of mine just got a new job after working at her old position for five years. While we’re both excited, we know it’s critical to start off in the best way possible, so I decided to find out from HR experts the way to go, and fuse their advice with my own experience as a new employee in both entry level and management positions:
1. Research your new company. Sure, you already did a bit of this to prepare you for the interview, but now you need to go deeper. Learn as much as you can about their history and philosophy, as well as the products and services they offer, and their old and existing clients. Knowledge empowers!
2. Plan your outfits for the first couple of weeks. I am already going through my friend’s wardrobe in my head, mixing and matching shirts, camisoles and jackets. If you aren’t sure of the employee dress code in your new company, stick to conservative outfits until you know what’s considered appropriate. Of course, it goes without saying that all your outfits should be properly laundered and ironed, and your shoes and accessories in good condition. Dress the way you want to be addressed.
3. Talk less, listen more. Instead of starting your new job and immediately yapping about your old job or, worse still, your personal life, isn’t it wiser to listen hard and restrict your own input to questions about what you need to know? This way, you can gather knowledge and build your confidence and competence, without putting your foot in your mouth!
4. Prepare to give undivided attention to your work. You don’t want to be the new employee who asks for time off in their first month at work. If you have personal errands, medical appointments or any other engagements, try to schedule them before you start work. If you can, arrange a week between your old job and the new one. This will not only help you get things done but will also give you some time to disengage from your old job and refresh yourself, instead of diving out of one job straight into another, baggage and all.
5. Keep a tight rein on your emotions. As you settle into your new job, make sure you keep your emotions under control. Annoying people and scenarios may be unavoidable, but you can control your reactions. You don’t need enemies at this stage. Oh and please, now isn’t the time to “fall in love” with someone at the office, if you can help it!
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