Feeling a little nervous about starting your new job? New job jitters are normal. You have the stress of figuring out the culture, personalities, and your boss – that’s just the tip of the iceberg. It can feel overwhelming but if you stay cognizant of these essential tips, you will stay on firm footing.
10 Essential Tips for Top Performance in Your First 30 Days
1. Fight the temptation to make immediate changes.
Yes, you were hired to make an impact, but before you set out to change everything, watch and listen – carefully. As a new employee, you may not have the historical context about why a policy or process was set in place. When you understand the “whys” behind the work functions and how your co-workers, employees, or bosses fit into that scheme, you are more likely to make changes that add value. Unless there is something unethical or unlawful happening, fight the temptation to make immediate changes until you fully understand all aspects and interlinking relationships.
2. Don’t hide behind the “I’m new” status.
You won’t understand all operational aspects immediately, but take the proper initiative to tackle each new task you are given. Being new isn’t a reason to slack on work assignments.
3. Don’t keep talking about your last job.
It may be tempting to say, “This is how we did it at my last job.” But, don’t. Don’t do it. There’s no sentence more of a turn off than that one. You are in a new company with a new culture. Be wise enough to take what has worked well for you in the past and scale it to your current environment. Revolutionize the company, but have the right facts first.
4. Shut down the gossip.
There will be people who want to give you the 411 on your new coworkers. Take it with a grain of salt. Better yet, don’t listen to it. Don’t assume that any of it is correct. Make up your own mind. This is especially important if you are managing a team. Judge your team based upon what you see personally, and not because of another person’s experience.
5. Ease up and go with the flow.
As the first week comes to an end, be careful of too many complaints. There may have been frustrations that popped up during the week and all things may not have gone as expected. Maybe you don’t have your business cards or your email is still not working. These are valid items to address, but get them corrected in a cordial, business-like demeanor so that you don’t sound like you’re the complainer. Keep in mind that in many government offices, security procedures may delay your ability to get straight to work. Look for ways to add value while you wait for access, but don’t complain about protocols that are likely outside of even your manager’s control.
6. Understand that your boss isn’t the only one who matters.
A new job can feel like it’s a continuation of the interview process because you’re still trying to impress people. And, you want to impress your boss most of all. However, it’s crucial to identify all key stakeholders. Introduce yourself to all people you see – inside and outside of your department, top to bottom, and don’t forget the cleaning or maintenance crew. When you try to impress your boss only, you’ll alienate or diminish your relationship building efforts with your coworkers.
7. Build your reputation as a key team contributor.
You were hired because the company wants results but how do you think you’ll be able to deliver on those results? It won’t be because of flying solo. You will need your team, customers, and clients working as a team.
8. Remember success is a two-way street.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking your boss will watch out for you. Success is a two-way street and you own your career. During the first few weeks, you and your manager should clarify your shared expectations. Know what is anticipated of you and how your success in your first week, month, or year will be measured. If your boss doesn’t set up a time to speak in the first week, get on their calendar. From communication style to corporate culture, that first 30 days sets the tone for success.
9. Don’t be the coworker from hell.
It’s the unwritten rules that, if violated, make people go crazy. Who washes the dishes? Do you load the dishwasher? Are there communal food items? Where does the boss usually sit in meetings? Little items set people off faster than major ones at times. You can transform the culture later but first find out what the norm is and then strategically choose what to change.
10. Don’t appear unapproachable.
You may work best on your own. Many people do but don’t isolate yourself too much in your first few days. When you are new, it can be challenging to get to know your colleagues. Our natural inclination is to wait for someone else to make the first move. However, if you have your head down too much, you may come across as standoffish. Be careful not to close yourself off from your team. Build your relationships and your key alliances. You’ll need those alliances at some point.
Remember that you’re going to do a great job—that’s why they hired you! You will get over your new job jitters and you’ll set yourself up for long-term success.
