Congratulations, you got the job! This means they think you’ll be an asset to the company.
It also means you are the new person at work. What do you need to do from day one to make them happy they chose you? How can you become more than an unfamiliar face at work? This article gives you some important tips so you can become a great employee. For even more advice, read these articles about what to do at work.
First, establish a routine check-in with your boss. While you don’t wish to be irritating, you don’t want to appear disinterested. Ask your manager to meet you at a time that suits you and to give feedback about your progress.
It’s also essential that you create goals to help you make progress. Discuss these with your boss, making sure to set realistic expectations and timelines.
Next, build relationships with your co-workers. Learn the names, roles and backgrounds of everyone on your team. Learn about who does what, how they enjoy it there and how long they have been there. Remember it’s important to listen more than you talk.
No matter how close you are, whether you agree with the long-term vision of the company, or become friends, it is important to get to know the dynamics within the department that you work in. Interoffice politics and awkward situations can be avoided if you are open-minded and attentive to your coworkers.
This should go without saying: You should arrive on time or, better yet, early. Maybe you can be the first person to arrive at your desk each morning (or at least some mornings). Arriving early also enables you to start the day relaxed without having to rush to get there. Bottom line: You want people to view you as someone who’s a reliable and well-prepared team player.
Another thing you should do is learn all you can about the company you’re working for. Yes, you likely did some initial research before the interview. But it’s important to continue learning about the country to better understand its history, goals, and values. This may mean you have to do more than just online research. You may need to attend optional meetings outside of your mandatory group meetings. Or you may need to dig deeper by reading annual reports. Regardless, it’s important to understand the company you’re working for in order to become a better employee.
Another important trait of a great employee is a positive attitude. Sure, everybody has an off day, and that’s okay. But keep a natural, upbeat attitude — no one likes a complainer. You should not give people reasons to be hesitant to establish a professional relationship with you. Be warm and welcoming from day one.
We can spend so much time worrying about finding a job and then so relieved when we do find one that it can be shocking to discover the different pressures involved in being an awesome employee.
The truth is that the interview is only the beginning. Once you get started in a new job you will have much more to prove.
It’s not difficult. Be positive, ask questions and listen. Set goals. Show up. A plan and awareness of the environment is key to becoming a great employee.
