First week in your new job? Here are seven tips

During your first week in a new job, in most organisations you will be welcomed by your new manager with a carefully crafted induction process. However, it’s not only up to your new employer to provide you with a positive, powerful and effective starting point. Here are some key actions which you should undertake during that very first week.

First week new job

For an optimal start in your new job, here are some tips for your first week in a new job.
 

7 tips first week new job

1. Arrive with no pre-conceived ideas

Lose any pre-conceived notions which may get in the way of learning new concepts. If you’ve had a break since finishing your last job, or perhaps education, then this can help you to effectively prepare. If your new role has elements of work which you’ve undertaken before, be careful not to assume that your tasks will be the same. Such beliefs can affect your concentration and ability to genuinely take on-board new information.
 

2. Take time to introduce yourself to those around you

Your new manager may provide a quick introduction but it’s often so swift that both parties forget the other person’s name or role.  A few moments with each colleague can pay huge dividends later. Start with those closest to where you are working, but don’t be afraid to gradually expand your introductions area. The more people you know, the easier it will be to ask for or even offer up help. Opening yourself up to people will also help you settle into this new and unfamiliar environment.
 

3. Prepare for each induction meeting

Prior to the meeting, find out who the inductor is plus their role within your new company.  Ask them for advice and suggestions, especially about who else you should spend time with in your first few weeks. They will most likely be flattered that you value their opinion and expertise, which will stand you in good stead for the future.
 

4. Ask more questions

It’s so easy for a new-starter to feel reluctant and hesitant to ask too many questions, but it’s in everybody’s interests for you to be fully up-to-speed on how things are done as soon as possible. Having said this, ensure these questions are positively phrased and information seeking in their nature. For example, demanding to know why processes aren’t completed as you’d expect will raise the hackles of colleagues and may prompt them to be defensive towards you.
 

5. Seek out one-to-one time with your new manager

Your aim here is to start building a positive relationship with your boss. Realise that they might be slightly nervous with a new team member, particularly if the team has been unchanged for a while, so such anxieties are not simply one-sided. Find out what your boss expects of you, how they like to be communicated with, and (subtly) find out the type of traits that they value in an employee. Like any new relationship, it can be an uneasy time for you both. If you show willing, it’s easier for your new boss to respond.
 

6. Keep in touch with your recruiter

Your recruitment consultant is still there to be a support for you, and is naturally keen to know how things are progressing. If a few little problems rear their head, do discuss them, as your recruiter will have the experience to make some wise suggestions and the ability to still be of help.
 

7. Make sure you get enough rest time

Your head is probably being filled with new ideas whilst your body copes with a new environment. Look to get some exercise, organise some relaxing down-time with friends aim to switch off, recharge, and be ready for another day.

These seven steps should make the transition into your new role, a positive and smooth one. Above all, make sure you enjoy your first week. Be ready to look forward to the challenges ahead. Know that your career is taking a powerful forward step in the right direction. Embrace the change; truly show your new colleagues how much you will enjoy being part of their team or organisation, and how much they’ll enjoy having you there.

Career advice - hays.nl

Follow us on social media

Follow Hays on LinkedIn - Hays.be
Follow Hays on Facebook - Hays.nl
Follow Hays on Instagram - Hays.nl