After a stressful move, you may feel especially apprehensive about starting your new job. No matter how many times you have been the new person in the office, settling into a new work environment is always daunting. Make the most of your new position, impress your employer, and befriend your co-workers with the following helpful tips.
Communicate and ask questions
Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your boss or co-workers when you first start a new job. However, make sure to time your inquiries appropriately. Try to avoid interrupting co-workers when they are busy with an important task, or bothering your boss when he or she seems harried or consumed with work. Focus on an alternative project until a more suitable time to ask your question. However, refrain from waiting too long—leaving work unfinished for days because you were unsure of something is not an acceptable excuse.
Take notes
When asking for help, always take notes as your superior or co-worker provides you with instruction. Refer back to your notes if you run into a problem again so you can use the information to figure out a solution on your own. Bothering co-workers or your boss with repeat questions because you didn’t take notes is a good way to draw negative attention and makes you appear lazy and unmotivated.
Be patient
You won’t feel comfortable in your new job overnight. Focus on fulfilling your position's duties to your best abilities, coming up with new ideas, and communicating them effectively. At first, your work may be scrutinized or you might feel unfairly targeted. Remain dedicated to your work, and your efforts will be appreciated by your boss and co-workers and earn you respect in no time.
Be confident
You landed the job because your skills, experience and personality impressed your employer. Having confidence in your abilities and performance will help you feel at home at your new job and like a valued team member. Don't get discouraged if you make mistakes--prove your worth by coming up with solutions, showing an eagerness to learn, and adding innovative ideas and creativity to your projects.
Be friendly
Starting a new job often feels like being the new kid in class. While fitting into your co-workers' social circle shouldn't be your first priority, nobody likes being the outcast. Assimilating with your peers will make your office a more pleasant place, and increase your comfort, morale, and productivity. Being outgoing, saying "good morning," and making conversation with other employees during coffee and lunch breaks will help you establish relationships. Refrain from complaining about work or gossiping--this can alienate your co-workers and create tension in the workplace.
Discuss goals
Request a meeting with your boss during your first week on the job to discuss your intended goals in your new position. This will give you an idea of what your boss expects from you, and let your boss know what you can bring to the company. Make sure you are focusing on achieving the goals you and your boss agree are the most important.
Follow office protocol
Your boss will likely review company policies with you regarding work schedules, breaks, dress code, and other etiquette. Look for cues regarding other office cultural aspects from your co-workers. Is everyone else compulsively early for meetings? How much fraternizing during the day is accepted? Follow your co-workers' lead for business conduct--provided they are exhibiting a positive example. If your fellow employees are often late, disorganized, and unproductive, be the exception instead of the rule.
Request feedback
After your first week comes to an end, request feedback from your employer about your performance. Whether he or she offers compliments or constructive criticism, your concern for his or her opinion will be appreciated. It will show your boss you care about your work's quality, take the position seriously, and are dedicated to contributing your skills and innovation to your projects.