How to shine in your new job
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Being the new girl is both exciting and anxious-making. You want to start pulling your weight but you don't know how anything works. Ease the way by following these tips. |
Get the jump
When offered the job, ask for material on the organisation such as staff newsletters, product brochures and access to the intranet so you can study up before you start. Also, double check the dress code and investigate public transport options to make sure you're early on day one.
Listen and learn
Bring a notebook with you. Listen carefully and make detailed notes about everything from the location of the loos to the phone extension for the IT helpdesk. Draw a seating plan with everyone's names and roles on it. Also, use people's names immediately and frequently so they stick.
Grab time with the boss
Ask your new manager about their preferred working style and their expectations about what you should achieve and by when. It's a good excuse to get a bit of bonding with the boss going. Remember, everyone's management style is different so if you know what it is upfront, you won't take it personally down the track.
Don't rely on guesswork
If there is anything you don't understand ask for clarification immediately. Struggling quietly could lead to missed deadlines or mistakes. Also, not everyone is good at explaining things so if a colleague appears to be rushing or growing impatient, don't let this intimidate you. Smile, tell the person you appreciate their time and ask them to slow down or to explain in more detail. It'll save you both time and effort in the end.
Open mind
Be friendly and polite to everyone but don't form alliances and friendships until you have everyone sussed.
Be kind to yourself
Being the newbie is a pain but you'll be an old hand soon enough. Comfort yourself at home by re-reading loving cards from family and friends. Those who have worked before should re-read their farewell cards full of messages of praise and best wishes from former colleagues. It will remind you what a great person you are!
Kate Southam is the Editor of careerone.com.au Visit the site for more career tips
Kate Southam
Editor,
careerone.com.au ; Kate's Blog and Ask Kate
Ask Kate appears weekly online and in more than 100 News Ltd newspapers.
Phone: 61 2 9288 7439
Mobile: 0438 626 560
Email: kate.southam@news.com.au
Address: Level 3, 2 Holt Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 Australia
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