Guest writer, Nathan, offers helpful tips for starting work, whether you are office bound or WFH. Here’s how to ease yourself into your new job, whilst making a great impression on your bosses and colleagues!
 
It’s no secret that the job market can be tough for recent graduates. With so much competition and so few positions, it can be difficult to even get your foot in the door. And once you do, you’re often faced with long hours, low pay, and little room for growth. It’s no wonder that so many recent graduates end up feeling overwhelmed and underprepared. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success. Here are a few tips to help you make a smooth transition into the workforce:

1. Be sure to arrive on time for your first day and dress appropriately for the office

Starting a new job is always an exciting time, but it’s also important to remember that first impressions count. Arriving on time for your first day and dressing appropriately for the office will send a strong signal to your new employer that you’re reliable and professional. Of course, you also want to make sure you’re comfortable in your new surroundings, so take some time to familiarise yourself with the office layout.
 
Even if you’re starting a remote job, making the right impression is important. In fact, remote onboarding can be even more daunting. Experts confirm that it should be the employer’s responsibility to facilitate a good home office setup to maximise digital wellbeing. So, it’s worth checking ahead of time that you’ll be given the equipment you need, to avoid stress on your first day. No-one can make the right impression if they’re struggling to log into a new laptop or dealing with a dodgy internet connection.

Working remotely – photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels

2. Take the time to get to know your co-workers and learn about their roles within the organisation

Starting a new job is always a bit of an adjustment period, getting to know the lay of the land and understanding what is expected of you. And while it can be tempting to just put your head down and power through, taking the time to get to know your co-workers can make a big difference. Not only will you feel more comfortable in your new surroundings, but you’ll also be able to build a stronger foundation for working together.
 
After all, we spend a significant portion of our lives at work, so it makes sense to try and create relationships that are supportive and positive. In addition, getting to know your co-workers can also help you to learn about their roles within the organisation. This can be especially helpful in large organisations where it can be easy to feel like just another cog in the machine. So next time you start a new job, take the time to get to know your co-workers – it’ll be time well spent.

3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions

Asking questions at a new job can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re a recent graduate. You might worry that you’ll look inexperienced or that your queries will annoy your new colleagues. However, asking questions is actually essential to settling into your new role and performing your best work. No one expects you to know everything, so asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
 
By asking questions, you can clarify expectations, get up to speed on company procedures, and build relationships with your co-workers. And remember, everyone was in your shoes at one point or another. Asking questions shows that you’re willing to learn and that you’re taking an active interest in your work. So, don’t be afraid to speak up – your new colleagues will appreciate it.

About the Author

Nathan is an Aquaman (if there’s such a thing!).  His life is on the beach, whenever life permits.  This pandemic taught him to explore places as much as he could and to appreciate healthy eating in the hopes of visiting more virgin islands in the future with his gorgeous wife, KC.  The best job for him is being able to eat and travel a lot, which he hopes to accomplish one day!
 

Find out more

WHF Working From Home – Tips From Some Seasoned Pros!
Best practices to impress your boss, keep you in cheerful spirits & at peak productivity