Starting a new job advice

Starting a new job advice by Michael Cheary For most of us, starting a new job is a bit like the first day of schoolNo matter how much youve  prepared in advance, by the time that first morning rolls around youre  unsure of where to go, what to do and who to talk to. And dont even get us started on what to do about lunchTo help ensure  your first days/weeks/years (delete where applicable) go as smoothly as possible, heres our guide to getting off on the right foot in your new role:Get to know the teamFirst things first: you actually need to make an effort.OK, so you wont necessarily be best friends with everyone on day one.  But  showing youre enthusiastic about trying to get to know them, as well as being  enthusiastic about your work, will naturally allow your colleagues to be more open and welcoming to you.Try and schedule some time with each of your teammates during  your first few days, and find out more about them. How long theyve been at the company, what positions theyve held, what they do and where theyve worked in the past, are all great potential questions to ask.And, if there are social occasions, such as after-work drinks or group lunches, make an effort to attend (if youre able to)  its a great way to feel part of the team and get to know people on a more personal level.Because  you cant buy friendsbut Happy Hour comes pretty close.Know your  limitationsNo one goes into a new job knowing all of their objectives    but its sensible to know your strengths and limitations.Top of the list of no-nos is going in with too many expectations. Be realistic about what you aim to achieve, especially in the early months, and dont set yourself up for a fall. By the same token, if your new boss expects unrealistic results from you, address the issue quickly before it becomes a problem.Always beware of overdoing it. It can be tempting in a new job to volunteer for everything with the aim of making a good impression, but be realistic. Take on what you know you can do well, and alw ays talk to your team  if you feel like you need a hand.Whatever you do, do it to the best of your ability, and dont accept half measures. That way your boss will notice the effort youre putting in.Avoid complainingDifferent companies have different ideas about how to introduce a new member of staff to their tasks.However,  although youll have some idea of your role because of the work you put into your application and getting through the interview process, you wont necessarily know the ins-and-outs of the induction process until youre officially on-the-job.Some companies will ease you in gently with some introductory training and interaction with the business. Some companies  may set objectives and deadlines immediately. Whichever approach your new employer takes, be ready to get stuck into your work and avoid complaining, at all costs.Speak up  Theres a big difference between complaining, and asking for help.As much as youre likely to want to hit the ground running, you cant expe ct to be an expert in the field in your first few weeks. So if you dont know something, or you feel like you need help, always ask   speaking up is not a sign of weakness.In fact, your employers are likely to be more impressed with your honesty. In a more practical sense, youll actually be learning something, rather than staying silent and hoping a problem goes away.Remember:  Rome wasnt built in a day*Probationary periodsDifferent workplaces have different practices when it comes to probationary periods.Most, however,  use this time to provide you with extra training and support from a mentor, and, of course, to ensure youre up to the job. Its also a great way for you yourself to check in on your progress, and provide feedback on your first few months.If it sounds intimidating, it really doesnt have to be. To avoid the prospect of a big make-or-break meeting, ask your boss for regular catch-ups to go through your progress, and whats expected of you.That way, if you do have any issu es, youll be able to bring them up before its too late.How to: Stop feeling nervous about starting a new jobEight things everyone feels when starting a new jobTop 5 Ways to impress on your first day*Also applies to SloughStill searching for your perfect position?  View all of our current vacancies nowFind a job What Where Search JobsSign up for more Career AdviceSign up for moreCareer Advice Please enter a valid email addressmessage hereBy clicking Submit you agree to the terms and conditions applicable to our service and acknowledge that your personal data will be used in accordance with our privacy policy and you will receive emails and communications about jobs and career related topics. Career Development Life At Work