Starting a new job and staying on top
When you're the new person at work, not only are you just trying to figure out how to use the phone system and learn everyone's name, but you're under pressure to make yourself as valuable as possible from the first day.
Part of that pressure comes from your new employer. In this global, 24/7 business world, companies demand that every employee pull his or her weight consistently every day, sometimes with little or no training. At the same time, as the newbie, you put pressure on yourself because you know in this tough job market - where downsizings and layoffs seem to be a common occurrence - you could be vulnerable if you don't impress the boss right away.
What are some ways to make yourself valuable right from the beginning? You should:
- Network. One of the best ways to make your presence immediately seen as a positive is to get to know everyone in your department right away, and also throughout a company. Of course, this can be difficult for even the most outgoing personality. Chatting it up with people who are busy without becoming an annoyance - while also trying to learn all you can about your new job - can be daunting. Still, by networking with others right away, you become a part of the team and learn what you can do to become an integral part of the organization. That not only helps your company, but your career.
- Know the rules. Make sure you check in right away with human resources, or whoever handles the pay and benefits information. Don't pester your co-workers with questions about how to make payroll deductions or bug the boss about getting forms for dental benefits. Often, an office manager is a good person to check with about items such as how to file expense reports or how to get a parking pass or office supplies. The point is to show that you're ready to take responsibility for yourself immediately and not expect others to lead you by the hand. Get an employee handbook, if available, and read it.
- Write it down. Carry a notebook with you so that when a co-worker or boss shares information, you can make a note of it. What may seem unimportant to you the first day may become critical information after you've been on the job for a while. Also, others are made to feel respected and valued when you write down what they say, and that's always a plus when establishing new relationships.
- Hang out. Pay attention to where co-workers gather before or after work, and during lunch or break times. Join in. This will be a time to gather useful information about the company and the key personalities. Try to understand how you can help others with issues of concern. Listen and ask questions, such as how your job interacts with others, or what aspects of your job are key in helping make projects successful.
- Look for the important players. While the person who boasts about accomplishments or brags about a close relationship with the boss may seem like a key person to get to know, the real power players are those who bring in the business and who are an important part of decision-making. If you're not sure who the power players are, find the person that everyone looks at when a decision is made in a meeting. This is the employee you want to network with immediately and find out how your work can become attached in some way to that job.
- Reach out. Check your company's newsletter, internal message system or bulletin boards to find ways to volunteer for events or committees that will expose you to others within the company. Strong ties within an organization are critical to advancement, and being supportive of company initiatives are viewed favorably by bosses.
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