By Andrew C. Jackson, BravoTECH President
Congratulations! You landed a new gig and you are ready to start. Here are a few tips to ensure you are quickly aligned with your new team and accepted into the company culture.
- Dress appropriately. Hopefully you noticed the company’s dress code during the interview process. Match your attire to your manager’s dress or if you are unsure, it does not hurt to overdress the first day or two while you observe those around you. The terms “casual” and “business casual” mean different things to different people, so it’s better to remove a jacket than to show up underdressed. Don’t try to make any fashion statements at this stage; your job at the moment is to become a part of the team.
- Be early. Show up early to work and meetings for the first week. If you’re working remote, log in or call in to meetings a few minutes before the start time. Official hours may have been shared during interviews, but it’s best to observe your teammates’ schedules and follow their lead. In your first few days you are being evaluated, and you want to give the impression that you have good time management skills and will be available as needed.
- Show respect and attention to detail. Your first days on the job will involve learning the company policies and processes. Be attentive and take notes. If fellow workers and managers are taking time to show you the ropes, document their advice. Since you might experience information overload during this time, your notes will help jog your memory later on.
- Observe and ask questions. Take notice of how your teammates interact with each other and with those in authority. Ask questions about the company culture or any process that is new to you. This will help you avoid stepping on any toes or offending someone accidentally.
- Share, challenge, suggest improvements…but be cautious at first. Successful managers and teams want to improve, and they want to hear your perspective. If you see areas where you can offer a suggestion, ask your manager when it would be appropriate to make a recommendation and then share your ideas at that time. However, be sure that you understand the business rationale behind established procedures before criticizing them. Once you are an integrated part of the team, you will have the chance to speak more freely.
- Have fun and be yourself. Show your natural energy and enthusiasm in everything you do. Adding positive energy to the work environment is a quick way to gain friends and impress management.
