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5 Ways to Set Yourself Up For Success In a New Job
You nailed the interview, your shoes are shined, and it’s time for your first day on the job.
This is an exciting time, and if you’re like most stressed out job seekers, you might think the worst of it—the interview—is behind you. But hold on—you’re not out of the woods yet.
According to BambooHR, 31 percent of new employees quit their jobs within the first six months. And while it’s impossible to attribute such a high turnover rate to any individual cause, we can assume that much of it stems from new employees failing to hold up their end after they’ve gotten a foot in the door.
Keep these tips in mind if you want to be successful at your new job.
1. Build relationships within the company
This is easily the most important tip you’ll read. If you want to succeed in your new job, you’ll need to integrate with the organization’s existing network—and the best way to do this is to start building personal relationships. Far from just being a way to build out your professional network (although it’s a great way to do that too!) building relationships helps you better understand your role in the company, what’s expected of you, and what skills your coworkers have. This information is great to have on hand if your project ever hits a sticking point.
2. Be an information sponge
Did you know in Sanskrit, the root of the verb “to be” is the same as “to grow”? If you aren’t growing, you aren’t living. Employees who understand this and are open to taking in new information will have the most success in their new roles.
But don’t stop with your own job’s responsibilities. You can learn plenty from your coworkers (and build your relationships with them at the same time) by soliciting their advice on the company, strategies, and workflows. Never be satisfied with what you know and never stop asking questions.
3. Take the initiative
While you’re soaking up all this information, don’t be afraid to put it to use by taking initiative on projects. Ask others if they need help, and contribute where you can. Your coworkers will remember who helped lighten their load. For building personal relationships alongside your own informational skillset, there’s nothing better.
4. Clarify your team’s priorities
As one of the newest members of your team, you’re in a unique position to view projects from a more objective, outside perspective. Use this to your advantage before you get bogged down with the details. Take a look at the big picture and try to identify the team’s most important priorities and strategies from your own point of view.
Don’t be afraid to butt in with these insights, even though you’re new—you’ll make a far bigger contribution by going against the grain and challenging established ideas than simply agreeing with what’s been done.
5. Find a friend
There’s no better lifeline at a new job than a friendly coworker. Find an employee who can act as your mentor during the early stages of your job. This person can give you critical logistic information (such as the location of the bathrooms and break room!) but can also help you plug into the office culture. Are you expected to arrive early? Are some managers stricter than others? What’s their policy on mobile phone use? This insider info can help you succeed in the long-term and can be a great way to integrate yourself into the office.
Success doesn’t happen on its own
If you landed the job, it likely means you made a good impression. Don’t let the company down after they’ve decided to back you. Do your research ahead of time and work every day to succeed in your new job. And if you need more advice on how to make this transition easier, contact Urgenci and we’ll give you a hand.
Urgenci
