You have gotten a good job, of course, it calls for celebration. Starting a new position is something to be proud of and be excited about. It isn’t easy landing a new role. The job hunts, the interviews, and all. Just so you don’t forget, your new role will demand that you live up to your resume. Read more about CareerHowever, beyond just reading your appointment letter and being taken through the ethics of your new company, you must ensure that you start your new job on the right footing. Your boss and coworkers are watching you. The big truth is that you are the new kid on the block, therefore all eyes will be on you for a while. Sometimes this close watch can be worrying for any newcomer because the temptation of trying to be on best behaviour can be overwhelming. In this article, I outline how to start on the right footing.
Ask Questions And Write Down The Answers
As a new kid on the block, it is important to ask questions on how to get your way around the company, and not just take notes of important information by writing them down. You know, asking the same questions over and over could be nerve-wracking to older colleagues, so it won’t be a bad idea to document their answers in your notepad. However, it is not bad to ask for reminders, but ensure you are seen as a smarter kid by asking minimal questions.
Never Assume Anything
You are indeed new, it might take you a few days to get your way around your new environment. And it can be tempting to assume, especially if you’re independent-minded. However, ensure you are well informed on your working hours, your parking space, who to meet when you need certain office issues to be addressed, safety and security protocols, which entrance to use, and other in-house processes. Make sure you have understood every nook and cranny of your new environment so that you can act based on the information and not assumptions.Sign up to the Connect Nigeria daily newsletter
Be Open
Ensure to always put on a graceful smile and greet each new person you meet. Never hesitate to engage in a meaningful conversation if you are approached by coworkers. Ensure to create an effective communication link between you and your colleagues. Also, never be hesitant to offer help when there is need. Of course, you can accept invitations to lunch, however, in the future, you can politely decline to avoid being too familiar which can give room for too much information and gossip.
Don’t Make Much Fuss Over Old Grievances
Many people make the mistake of taking old grievances in their former workplace to their new jobs. They badmouth former coworkers or bosses. Doing this is highly unprofessional and you might be seen as petty and childish. In addition, trash-talking former employers and coworkers will give room for gossip, which is highly unprofessional in the workspace.
Be A Bit Enigmatic
Don’t make the mistake of giving too much information about your life, whether past, present or future. Even if you are tempted by busybodies in the office. It is cool to connect via LinkedIn, however, spaces like Instagram and Facebook which have privacy settings should be restricted from the views of coworkers. Don’t feel pressured to connect with them through these platforms. You might want to later consider when you have formed a deeper friendship with one or two of them – strictly based on trust. Featured Image Source: IWFMGot a suggestion? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com
