CAREER TIPS-How to Deal with your First Day in a New Job
Posted 14th July 2020 • Written by People First •
How to Deal with your First Day in a New Job
Get to know people
Your new employer might allocate you a ‘buddy’, someone to help you settle in and get to know your way around, but even if they do, you still need to make an effort.
Show you’re enthusiastic about getting to know them and also your enthusiasm about the company and your job, it will of course help your colleagues be more open and welcoming to you. Try and find out more about them - how long they’ve been at the company, what positions they’ve held, what they do and where they’ve worked in the past – and tell them about you too.
If they hold social occasions, like after-work drinks or group lunches, do your best to attend – it’s a great way to feel part of the team and get to know people on a more personal level. They might even hold one especially to welcome you, so definitely go to that event! Don’t do what we heard one employee did and ask for two weeks’ notice of any event and then sit on your own away from the team to eat his lunch. Not friendly!
Know your limitations
We all want to make a good impression, but be realistic about what you can achieve, especially in the first few weeks and months. Beware of overdoing it; it can be tempting to volunteer for everything, but be realistic - take on what you know you can do well, and always talk to your team if you feel like you need a hand.
Also, importantly, if your new boss expects unrealistic results from you, deal with the issue quickly before it becomes a problem.
Whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability, and don’t accept half measures. That way your boss will notice the effort you’re putting in.
Be Patient (and avoid complaining)
Different companies have different ideas about how to introduce a new member of staff to their tasks.
However, although you’ll have some idea of your role because of the work you put into your application and getting through the interview process, you won’t necessarily know the ins-and-outs of the induction process until you’re officially on-the-job.
Some companies will ease you in gently with some introductory training and interaction with the business. Some companies may set objectives and deadlines immediately.
If you’re not happy and are disappointed with the training or equipment, or lack of it, don’t complain immediately, give things time to settle down; but if it continues, then raise it with your line manager or HR.
Importantly, be open to learning new techniques for performing tasks you have done before. These new methods may be better, but even if they aren't a significant improvement, learning new ways to perform your work will keep things interesting. It can save you from boredom and make you better at your job.
Speak up
If you don’t know something, or you feel like you need help, then ask – speaking up is not a sign of weakness, it’s better than staying silent and hoping a problem goes away.
Probation and Reviews
Different employers have different probation periods, 3 or 6 months is normal, but how to monitor and record your progress can also be very different.
Many will have a review with you at the end of your probation but there’s nothing wrong with you asking your boss for regular catch ups after a week, a month, the second month, etc. to see how you’re doing, check on your progress, get and provide feedback, that way, if there are any problems, you can deal with them before it’s too late.