So you’ve landed that new job you always wanted, or at least it’s a change from the job you wanted to forget. Whatever the cause, you’re here and it’s your first day at the office.
But wait!
Where is your desk? Who do you report to? Where can you find them? What’s a typical lunch break like? An hour? 20 mins? What do you work on first? Why is everyone in suits and you’re in business casual? Did you miss a memo?
Oh no!
Looks like you’re tripping on your way in the front door and that, friend, is pretty much 100% your fault. Sorry, not sorry.
Here’s the good news: you can course-correct AND if you haven’t started your new job yet….here’s how to not be ‘that lame newbie’.
Plan ahead. Ask for the contacts you will need from your hiring manager in order to reach out and introduce yourself. This will give you an opportunity to ask any further questions you may have of your new colleagues well in-advance. Not knowing where you sit, who you work for, or who works for you…well…that’s a problem. You wouldn’t go on a road trip without directions, right?
Do the necessary learning. Yes, this sounds like the above but it’s kinda different. In addition to asking core questions to do with the organizational structure, workplace culture, and expectations, it’s also your responsibility to manage-up in order to mentally prepare. So why not ask for any suggested reading before you start? If your boss has ideas of certain books or office materials she recommends you get caught-up on, then our vote is a unanimous: DO.
Don’t try and get everyone to love you right away. People don’t like when a new person comes in to an office dynamic and tries to instantly win everyone over. We’re not saying don’t be kind. Because…always be kind. We’re saying, let others get to know you and get to know them too. It’s never a bad idea to take your time and observe your surroundings. It will undoubtedly help you lead your teams and work within the set dynamic of your new office much more effectively. Plus, taking time to get to know someone means building true relationships, which at work can mean: true allies who you know will be (truly) rallying for you.
Steady your pace. Yep, you! The one running full speed on fumes by the time the first quarter is over? Not a good idea. We all want to make a great first impression, and we totally get you’re feeling the pressure to prove yourself… but burning the candle at both ends will burn you out. Truth is, starting too strong means setting expectations way too high while setting yourself up for long-term failure (burn-out). Work hard, but don’t make yourself sick over it (ever).
Be respectful. Whatever the hierarchy, whatever the structure, wherever the organization, just be respectful. Respect comes in many forms, and often it’s as simple as listening. People notice when you’re a ‘me person’ and teams don’t work that way. Give other people the autonomy and chance to shine––even if it’s in your limelight…
Above all else, breathe and try to enjoy it. You don’t need to feed the flames of nagging self-doubt every day. It’s not your job to do that, your job is…well…to DO YOUR JOB. (And we’ve got a feeling that you’ll be doing that exceptionally well).