Starting a job is exciting and scary at the same time. All those new people to meet, a strange working environment, and lots of things to learn can make your first week a challenging experience.
You want to feel comfortable in your new position as soon as possible because you want to dig into those projects you were hired to undertake. While it might take some time to get settled in fully, there are some things you can do to get acclimated quickly:
Schedule one-on-one meetings with those on your team
Set up some short chats with each person on the team. The goal is to get to know them, find out what they are working on, and ask them what you can do to make life easier for them. It might seem a bit awkward at first, but the meetings could result in your co-workers realizing you’re making an effort to settle in.
Once you receive assignments for a few projects, you’ll be working on them as a valuable member of the team rather than as an outsider that no one has gotten to know yet.
Start conversations whenever and wherever possible
Those first breaks are difficult. You go into the break room without knowing the protocol (where can I sit without offending someone?) or what to say. Everyone here knows everyone else, and the conversations revolve around things you haven’t been privy to, so to say it’s awkward is an understatement.
Just remember, these are the people you’ll be interacting with from now on, so the sooner you get to know them, the sooner you’ll start feeling comfortable and like you’re part of the group. Introduce yourself to some of the people around you to get the ball rolling.
Ask a few questions. It’s a great icebreaker because people generally want to help the new hire by giving them the information they need to settle in. Keep in mind that almost every friendship begins with a simple conversation
Show everyone you’re willing to try new things
Your new co-workers won’t be impressed with statements such as, “That’s not how we did it at my last job.”
You may have liked many things about your old company, but this new culture will probably be different. After all, you likely took this job because you were looking for a change. So, while it might feel comfortable to revert to behaviors from your old company, you need to start accepting the routines and methods of the new company so that you can settle into your new role quickly.
Getting a fresh start means letting go of the old practices and showing everyone that you are willing to embrace the changes that come with your new position.
Are you looking to change jobs in 2020?
Select Staff is a leading staffing company in Dallas, Texas, specializing in the placement of light industrial, office, clerical, accounting, and finance personnel. If you’re looking for a change, contact the experts at Select Staff today!
