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4 Tips for a Successful First Day at a New Job

It’s Day One at your new job. How do you start paving the way to winning trust and becoming a successful team member?

Meet as Many People as You Can
Relationship building starts with your first hello.

  • Use your “elevator pitch.” Keep it short, confident and friendly. What do you want coworkers to remember about you? What do you want to be known for?  
  • Pay attention. Don’t be that person who uses the weak excuse that “I’m not good with names.” People are impressed when someone takes the time and effort to learn who they are. Here’s a tip: Use the person’s name as you are introduced; for instance, “It’s great to meet you, Sam.” If you don’t catch their name on the first mention, ask them to repeat it.
  • Use every opportunity to say hello. Introduce yourself on the elevator, in the corridor, and in the rest room or cafeteria. You may be working in a fast-paced culture where people don’t have time to come to you. 

Make Your Workspace Your Own
Once you’ve been shown to your office, cubicle or work station, turn it into a functional site that also serves as your personal on-the-job comfort zone.

  • Look around. What do your colleagues’ work areas look like? While you can and should individualize yours, be sure it’s not too far “out there.” For example, if no one else displays photos or personal items, keep yours to a minimum as well.
  • Personalize it. Whether it’s artwork that reflects a hobby or personal favorite place or a tasteful desk ornament, these items will both make you feel at home and service as a jumping-off point to start conversations.

Make a Difference
Demonstrate at least one skill or ability that you sold yourself on during your interview. Be known for responding quickly and effectively.

  • Get a head start. Chances are, you did this in advance of your interview but once you’ve been hired, research your company and your manager. This way, you’re better prepared to hit the ground running.
  • Show what you know. Look for ways to share your expertise. Speak up when you have an idea to share. Ask questions so you can get the details straight. Then, actively seek out something productive to do so you can make a difference.
  • Take a personal risk with a new project. Pick something that will benefit your company and work to excel at it. HubSpot cites the example of a new sales representative who had an idea for building a partner channel. He acted upon it, including use of his own time as needed, and made it work. Today he runs one of the company’s fastest-growing and productive teams.

Partner with a Mentor
The “buddy system” can be invaluable as you join a new company.

  • Seek out a high-performing employee. This is a veteran who knows what works – and what doesn’t.
  • It’s about more than just learning your job. You already have the skillset to do that. Your mentor can bring you up to speed on corporate culture, office politics and the company’s unique acronyms, “language” and even inside jokes.

For additional guidance on finding and successfully starting your next job, contact the team at PrideStaff Modesto. Or, see our related posts.

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