Starting a new job could be a very stressful experience, especially if you do not know what to expect or have never met the people you will work with. However, it is also a crucial time for your career in the company as during the first weeks you create your image and set the expectations with your colleagues and boss. As an experienced recruitment agency Search is well-aware of the challenges people experience when starting a new job and the difficulties of making a good first impression. To help all job applicants who work with us prepare for their new employment we created a list of 5 things that we recommend doing during your first weeks with a new employer.
- Arrive early and leave late
During the first weeks on a new job you are being observed by both your boss and colleagues so it is essential to learn what the normal work day looks like, what are the work patterns, when people arrive and leave, and when they have lunch. Arriving early and leaving late has proven to be a successful strategy for many when starting a new job. This does not mean arriving first and leaving last, but try to be there earlier than most. You can use this time to get a hold of your tasks, prepare a plan for the day and talk to some of your colleagues before the work day has started. Make sure that you check in with your manager or team before you leave the office and ask them if there is anything you can help them with. This will ensure that you make a good first impression.
- Ask a lot of questions and be ready to learn
There is no better way to learn about the role and the culture of the organization than asking questions and being ready to learn. If you have questions for your manager you can arrange a meeting with them during your first week. Make sure that you know what you are expected to learn during the first weeks, which of your colleagues your should learn from, what are the most important processes and procedures, what is the best way to keep your manager informed about your progress and so on. On the other hand, do not ask too many questions that are focused only on you. These include questions about vacations, pay increases and time off. The answers to these are most likely available through the Human Resources Department or through individual research.
Your individual research starts before the interview and continues during your first weeks. Before you start the job make sure you keep yourself up to date with the development of the company and what they are doing. Also connect with your future colleagues through social media and try to learn more about them, including what their names and focus areas are. It is much easier to remember their names once you have researched them online, and this would certainly make a good first impression!
- Connect with your colleagues
Once you start a new job focus not only on doing it well, but also on connecting with your colleagues. Join them during lunch or during other after-hours events to get to know them better and allow them to get to know your best version of yourself. Try to behave appropriately and do not overindulge in political or religious issues. Connect with your new colleagues on social media to reinforce your professional relations. Once you have done this you can start building your own network. Find people that can guide you and provide you with advice. Offer others help when they need it and try to foster the good relationships you have established.
- Set the right expectations
Setting the right expectations with your boss and colleagues during the first weeks is essential. Learn what your boss expects from you during the first week, month and even year. During the first week you also set the expectations with your colleagues. These include your working hours, communication, organization and teamwork. Make sure that you demonstrate the qualities and skills you promoted during the interview. Show your boss that you can meet their expectations and that it was the right decision to hire you. Keep a track of all you have done, your accomplishments, major contributions and positive results. This will help you get into the habit and have the information ready for performance reviews in the future.
- Have a clear work strategy
Remember the question “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Even if you have not been asked this at an interview having a clear answer is essential for knowing why you want to get hired in the first place. This includes knowing what you want to achieve and how to achieve. Maybe you see this position as a step towards your dream career or maybe you want to advance in this particular company. Whatever the aim, make sure that you follow the right strategy. This includes creating the right connections, networking and keeping track of your progress and achievements. Make a good first impression and show your boss that you care about the projects they care about. This will help you build your credibility and establish trust between you and your employer.
Find a new job with Search recruitment agency
These are the 5 things you should consider when starting a new job and that will ensure your success. Finding a job, on the other hand, is a task Search can help you with. As one of the best recruitment agencies in UK we offer a variety of opportunities from part time jobs to full time jobs, from call centre jobs to IT jobs. Our experienced advisors will assist you with your job search and will help you find the ideal position for your skills. Contact us today to learn more.
