Start your new job with awareness, flexibility
Q: I recently accepted a new position and am very excited about the opportunity. After working for numerous employers in the past, I want to make this one last and start on the right foot. I would appreciate any tips about making a good first impression. How can I measure my progress instead of asking my new boss?
A: Striving to make an excellent first impression and being aware of your new surroundings are good signs and indicate an understanding of working relationships. Starting a new job is exciting, and using your past experience can serve as a benchmark in doing things differently. Keep in mind that the first several months are crucial in forming relationships with colleagues and senior management.
A suggestion that will benefit you now and in the future is to increase your skills in managing up, down, and laterally with those in your workspace. The key to success in starting a new job often reflects how well you manage your relationships and sets the perception of how you communicate.
Naturally, relationship building takes time and consistency. However, your first few months give you a wonderful opportunity to ask questions and learn. Asking for feedback from your boss is a way to learn how they manage and helps you develop more understanding of your new role.
Make it your goal to observe how people get things done, how projects are managed, and how your boss likes to communicate, such as through email, in person, or via virtual meetings. Pay attention to how often your boss likes to meet and their communication style. For example, some bosses want to small talk before diving into an agenda, while others like brief, structured meetings.
Does your boss like to meet regularly once a week or several times?
Generally, your job during the first three months is not to make drastic changes that impact others but to understand what is expected of you and how you best meet those goals. Stay flexible. As with any new adventure, things can change.
People are attracted to likable people who have a positive attitude and focus on customer service. Make it a goal to start meeting key stakeholders of the company and volunteer for projects that will increase your understanding of the business. Always be willing to do what it takes to learn. Starting your new job with a curious mindset often creates a flow of communication positively.
The first couple of months on the job usually are the time to listen, observe and form partnerships with those around you. Take the initiative to reach out and meet people even if they are not in your department.
Kimberly Thompson, M.Ed., is a National Board-Certified Counselor and Career Coach. Send questions to kim@careerrescue.com or visit her blog at chron.com/jobs.