Starting Strong: Strategies for New Job Success
Congratulations on landing the job. After the initial excitement wears off, it’s time to start thinking about your first day at your new job. The first day at a new job can be nerve-wracking, but it’s also an opportunity to make a great first impression and set yourself up for success. In this blog post, we’ll discuss easy-to-implement strategies for new job success so you can make a lasting impression and hit the ground running.
Recommended Reading: Common Job Application Mistakes and Tips to Avoid Them
Starting a New Job: What to Do Before Your First Day
There are a few things that you can do before starting a new job to ensure a smooth transition and make a lasting impression on your new manager and colleagues.
Do Your Research
Before your first day, take some time to research the company you’ll be working for. This will not only help you understand the company’s mission and values, but it will also give you a better understanding of the company’s culture and what to expect on your first day.
You can start by checking out the company’s website, social media pages, and any recent news articles about the company. This will give you a good overview of the company and its current projects.
Reach Out to Your New Manager
If you haven’t already, reach out to your new manager and introduce yourself. This will not only show your enthusiasm for your new job, but it will also give you a chance to ask any questions you may have about your first day.
You can also ask about the dress code, what time you should arrive, and if there’s anything you should bring with you on your first day.
Plan Your Commute
Make sure you know how to get to your new workplace and plan your commute accordingly. This will help you avoid any potential delays or getting lost on your first day.
If possible, do a test run of your commute a few days before your first day to ensure you know the route and how long it will take you to get there.
Starting a New Job: What to Do on Your First Day
Your first day at a new job is a day brimming with potential and opportunity, where you have the chance to make a lasting impression, forge new relationships, and set yourself on the path to success in your new role.
Arrive Early
On your first day, it’s important to arrive early. This will give you time to settle in, get a feel for the office, and prepare for the day ahead.
Arriving early also shows that you’re punctual and eager to start working. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time.
Dress to Impress
First impressions are important, and your appearance plays a big role in that. Make sure you dress professionally and adhere to the company’s dress code.
If you’re unsure about the dress code, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and dress more formally. You can always adjust this once you get a better understanding of the company culture.
Be Friendly and Approachable
Your first day at a new job is a great opportunity to make a good impression on your new colleagues. Be friendly and approachable, introduce yourself to everyone you meet, and try to remember their names.
Smile, make eye contact, and engage in small talk. This will help you build rapport with your new colleagues and make them feel more comfortable around you.
Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask questions on your first day. This shows that you’re eager to learn and that you’re taking your new role seriously.
If you’re unsure about something, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. It’s better to ask for help than to make a mistake because you are too afraid to ask.
Take Notes
On your first day at a new job, you’ll likely be given a lot of information. To help you remember everything, take notes throughout the day.
You can also use these notes to refer back to when you have questions or need a refresher on something you learned on your first day.
Be Proactive
Don’t wait for someone to tell you what to do on your first day. Be proactive and look for ways to help out and contribute to the team.
If you finish a task early, ask for more work or offer to help a colleague who may be struggling with their workload. This will show that you’re a team player and willing to go above and beyond.
Get to Know Your Colleagues
Your first day is a great opportunity to get to know your new colleagues. Take the time to introduce yourself and ask them about their roles and experiences at the company.
You can also ask for their advice and insights on how to succeed in your new role. This will not only help you build relationships with your colleagues, but it will also give you valuable information that can help you on your way to new job success.
Starting a New Job: What to Do After Your First Day
Your first day is done and dusted. Your nerves have settled down. You’re ready to implement a few more strategies for new job success.
Reflect on Your First Day
After your first day, take some time to reflect on how it went. What did you do well? How can you improve? Did you learn anything?
It’s essential to engage in self-reflection to understand your contributions, areas for improvement, and avenues for growth. Reflect on how your skills, experiences, and unique perspectives can add value to your team and organization. Celebrate your successes and strengths, but also acknowledge where you may fall short or encounter challenges. Recognizing these areas allows you to proactively seek support and guidance from mentors, colleagues, or resources within the company who can help fill the gaps.
Follow Up with Your Manager
Within a day or two of starting your new job, follow up with your manager to thank them for the opportunity and to ask for feedback on your first day.
This will show that you’re committed to doing well in your new role and that you value your manager’s opinion. It will also give you a chance to address any concerns or questions your manager may have.
Set Goals for Your First Month
Now that your first day is over, it’s time to start thinking about your first month at your new job. Set some goals for yourself that you want to achieve in your first month.
These goals can be related to your job performance, building relationships with your colleagues, or learning new skills. Having goals will give you something to work towards and help you stay motivated.
Read our blog for more tips on how to succeed in the workplace, whether you’re on the hunt for a new role or starting a new job.
About Competence SA
Competence SA identifies, develops and enables potential through the provision of the following services:
If you would like to know how we raise the bar, visit www.competencesa.co.za.
Contact us at hello@competencesa.co.za or 0828537456
