Starting a new job can be pretty daunting. You don’t know what to wear, you’re unsure of the office etiquette and you have no idea how to spend your lunch break.
So, to make your first week just a little bit easier follow our guide below.
Get the intros out of the way
Say hello to anyone that you meet in the lift, on the stairs or even in the canteen. It’s a lot easier to muster the courage to say hi during your first week instead of introducing yourself in a meeting a month later. Take the initiative.
Ask questions
There’s no such thing as a stupid question, especially during your first week. Find out as much as you can about your job and the organisational structure of the company. Ask questions about different departments and show an interest in other people’s roles. You’ll learn a lot from the process.
Take notes
Carry a notebook with you at all times during your first week. Jot down any advice you are given and take a note of people’s names as you meet them. This book will become a great point of reference if you find yourself lost during your first month.
Read the onboarding manual
Study your onboarding manual carefully (if you receive one). Nothing will get you up to speed at a new job faster. By taking the time to go through it you are demonstrating your ambition and dedication to the company.
Observe the unspoken rules
Every company has a set of unspoken rules, from labelling the food that goes into the fridge, to restocking the toilet paper once it has run out. These little quirks are a huge part of the company culture.
Never turn down help
If a boss or coworker offers to help you with a project always accept (even if you’re more than capable of doing it on your own). This is a great opportunity for you to bond with your peers and get valuable insight.
Avoid office gossip
You do not want to get involved in office politics during your first week (or ever!). You might alienate yourself from other staff members if you take part in idle gossip. Instead, take everyone at face value and step away from any toxic conversations.
Don’t overcommit
It’s tempting to say yes to everything that comes across your desk in your first week. However, you need to make sure that you don’t bite off more than you can chew.
The last thing you want is to be stressed, overwhelmed, or complete projects late because you simply don’t have time.
The main thing to remember during your first week is to have a positive attitude. No one will expect you to get everything straightaway.
