Starting a new job is an exciting experience. You did the hard work to land this opportunity and now it’s time for a fresh start and a great first impression. If you want to impress your managers and easily navigate the early days in a new role, check out these top six things you should do when starting a new job.
1. Get to Know the Company Culture
The culture encompasses the values, behaviors, and social norms that define how things are done within the organization. It influences everything from communication styles to decision-making processes and can significantly impact your experience and success in the role.
Observe and Listen
Pay attention to the preferred platform for internal communications and the company’s approach to work-life balance. These observations will give you insights into the unspoken rules and expectations.
Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask how the company’s values and mission translate into day-to-day work. This shows your dedication to the organization and interest in aligning with the company’s goals.
2. Establish Clear Expectations with Your Manager
The relationship with your manager is pivotal to your success and enjoyment in a new job. Early on, it’s important to establish clear expectations to ensure you’re both on the same page regarding your role, responsibilities, and performance metrics. Especially ask them about their expectations for your first 30, 60, and 90 days, and inquire about how your performance will be evaluated.
Schedule a One-on-One
Within the first week, schedule a recurring meeting with your manager to check-in on tasks, ask questions, and provide space for career development conversations. You can also use this time to set expectations for out-of-office communication and workflow strategies.
Clarify Priorities
Understand which new tasks and projects are top priorities and where you should focus your efforts initially. This will help you set priorities in the future when managing multiple projects and contribute meaningfully.
Seek Feedback
Discuss with your manager that you are open to feedback and how you best learn. Regular feedback can help you course-correct if needed and accelerate your development in the role.
3. Build Relationships with Your Colleagues
Building strong relationships with your new coworkers establishes a community of support and comfort. Starting any new job can be overwhelming, but there are always people around you willing to lend a hand.
Introduce Yourself
Take the initiative to introduce yourself to your team members and other coworkers. Whether remote or in-person, a simple introduction can go a long way in breaking the ice and establishing a connection.
Participate in Activities
If there are team lunches, after-work drinks, or virtual meet-ups, make an effort to attend. These provide valuable opportunities to build relationships and gain a deeper understanding of the company culture.
Be Collaborative
Try volunteering for team projects or sitting in on other department meetings to find collaborative opportunities. It not only helps you build relationships with people outside your department but also demonstrates your commitment to others.
4. Learn the Tools and Processes
Every company has a set of tools, software, and processes that employees use to get work done. Getting up to speed with these systems is vital to performing your job efficiently.
Attend Training Sessions
Many companies offer onboarding sessions or training programs to familiarize new hires with the tools and processes they’ll use daily. Make sure to attend these sessions and take notes for future reference.
Ask for Help When Needed
If you’re struggling with a particular process, don’t hesitate to ask for help. It’s much faster to ask your colleagues than to waste an hour looking for the answer. Plus, they may have a quick tip to help you find things faster in the future.
5. Set Personal Goals
In addition to understanding your manager’s expectations, it’s important to set personal goals for your new role. It should support your career aspirations and help you set boundaries on saying yes to projects that truly support you instead of overwhelm you.
Create a Plan
Outline the steps you want to take to achieve your next career goal. No matter if it is a short or long-term plan, define training opportunities, possible stretch assignments, or a mentor who can help guide you to your next step.
Ask for Opportunities
Sometimes growth opportunities will not always be available. If there is a conference you want to attend or a certification you want to achieve, consider asking your manager for support in pursuing these career development opportunities. It is always better to ask than assume as you might be surprised at how willing they are to help.
6. Stay Organized
A new role also means a steep learning curve. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the amount of information and responsibilities coming your way. Organization will become your best friend in managing your time effectively to navigate this period successfully.
Use Tools
Whether you prefer a traditional planner or a digital tool, find a system that works for you and use it to keep track of your tasks, deadlines, and meetings.
Set Reminders
There will be a million dates flying your way when you start a new job. Set reminders for upcoming meetings, schedule an email, or complete a task by a certain date to ensure you’re completing everything on time.
By taking these proactive steps in the early days of your new position, you can set yourself up for success, build strong relationships, and make a positive impact from day one. Remember, the key lies in your willingness to take on new challenges, and visit the TalentAlly Blog for more tips to take your career to the next level. We wish you the best of luck!
