Getting ready to step into your very first workplace environment can often be daunting. Students or first-time employees feel nervous about the way they should behave in the early days, while they adjust.
Whether you’re joining public service, going to work for member-focused establishments like the local police association or heading to a more corporate environment, the reality is that each workplace has its own culture. Some work environments may be relaxed and easy to get used to. Others may involve a few learning curves.
Pointers to Help You Adapt
There’s no hard and fast set of rules to adapt to a new workplace. Factors such as industry or business type and company culture are among the top aspects that will determine the overall environment you’re going to work in. There are, however, a few general tips that will help you get started on your journey to adapting to your first job.
Be the Best Version of Yourself
The number one rule in any work industry is that you should be the best version of yourself. Keep in mind that your employer expects you to look and act professionally and have a positive mindset and overall attitude.
A few simple ways to help you be at your best, are:
- Take care of your health to ensure that you feel strong and energised.
- Be sure to get enough sleep to keep your mind alert.
- Practice positive and engaging body language.
- Adopt a positive, helpful attitude toward your work and everyone you encounter.
- Seek to add value rather than to make a point.
Focus on Learning Everything About Your Job
From day one your goal should be to learn as much as possible about your job function. While it’s true that an efficient employee doesn’t constantly ask for help, it’s essential to find your feet in the first few weeks and be clear on what others expect of you.
Find a mentor or coach in your new environment who doesn’t mind helping you adapt to the processes needed to do your job correctly. Companies generally provide adequate levels of training to get you started but it’s up to you to manage the situation as well as possible. Ask questions in the early days so that you can do the right thing from the get-go.
Practice Active Listening
Another rule to embrace is to practice active listening, no matter who you’re communicating with. This means listening to understand rather than simply to reply. Take notes and ask for clarification if you’re unsure. If the training is quite intensive, it’s a good idea to repeat what you’ve heard to ensure that you have understood correctly.
Always be Realistic
It’s not unusual for a first-time employee to be eager to please in an attempt to impress your new employer, clients or members. While there’s generally nothing wrong with this, it’s important to remain realistic. This is especially important when it comes to reaching deadlines.
Don’t be tempted to take on extra work in an attempt to impress anyone. Rather pace yourself and spend your extra time learning different aspects of your new job. Sticking to a steady pace in the early days will help you become comfortable with the various expectations of the position.
Be a Team Player
Most work environments require a team effort to achieve company goals. This means that it’s important to learn how your particular function impacts the team. Learn to do your job well and focus on getting along with everyone in the team.
Remember that you don’t have to like them or become firm friends, but you will need to maintain a professional relationship with your colleagues. Once you become comfortable doing your work, offer to assist others where you can.
Focus on Clear Communication
Communication should always be clear and concise. Make sure that you understand what is expected of you. Office chat should be kept to a minimum and shouldn’t interfere with you or your colleagues’ work.
Always be polite and avoid bad habits like playing games on your phone when you should be working. Avoid office gossip at all costs and don’t get dragged into personal issues that don’t concern you or your position!
Learn Customer Service
No matter what entity you’ll be working in, you’ll be dealing with other people. This can be in the form of members, customers, vendors, suppliers or contractors. Learn the rules and regulations of dealing with various departments and focus on best practices for all situations you will generally encounter.
Final Thoughts
While it’s true that your first job may not be your lifetime career, it’s important to behave professionally and courteously. Keep in mind that you may need a reference from this company when you’re looking for a different position in future.
Factors such as professionalism and clear communication are key in helping you to fit in. If you do what is expected of you every day, to the best of your ability, chances are you’ll feel part of the new team before you know it!
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