You’ve worked hard to land that new job. After spending a lot of time polishing your resume, interviewing skills, and image, you arrive on your first day at the new job. Although you are eager to dig in, there is a period of adjusting to the company culture that often feels like someone put the brakes on your enthusiasm. Don’t allow this period of adjustment to your new company to go on too long!
Following these five steps during the early weeks on your new job will help to move your career forward and ensure your success.
- 1Get to know the organization. Identify the organization’s key people and make sure you understand how the organization works, both the formal and informal organization. Remembers names/titles quickly. While the informal organization may be harder to identify, you must learn how work gets accomplished through this informal channel.
- 2Know your immediate manager’s goals. Understand your manager’s communication style, including knowing how much information they want from you and when they want an update. Be sure that it is clear what is expected of you, your goals, and how you will achieve them.
- 3Identify the significant company projects. Learn what the key projects are in the company and how your job links to these major initiatives. Identify who is involved in these projects, the project leaders, and how you can be involved in some key projects.
- 4Map a plan for some early successes. Be action-oriented. Take the initiative. Create a plan for yourself – don’t wait for your boss to do this for you. Show them that you are a person who can help them to be successful.
- 5Document your strategy, timeline, and accomplishments. Keep a record of your achievements. Meet often with your manager to ensure that you are on track with their plans. If not, be willing to adjust your work to address your manager’s strategic plan.
Following these five steps will give you an edge on succeeding in your new job. Remember, there is always a “new kid on the block” timeframe, so be willing to accept that you may have to work a little harder, in the beginning, to fit in and show your new manager that you have what it takes to succeed. Not just your success, but their success as well!
Trignano Consulting works with clients looking to improve their management skills. A mentor with over 23 years of experience in a corporate environment, Trignano offers client support in managing productivity, retention and culture. Linda Trignano’s firm is focused on helping companies more effectively handle their people related needs by working collaboratively with clients to find solutions that work for everyone. She is able to quickly and cost effectively implement change that improves productivity. You can reach her at 552-800-1127