Being the NEW person in the Office

As the year comes to an end, we often start to re-evaluate our positions and roles in our jobs. You could be someone who has been lucky enough to have been promoted within the company in a new division or perhaps you have found a job in an entirely new company all together.  Are you petrified/nervous/anxious of being the NEW person.

“What if everyone hates me? What if I can’t do this job?” "What if I am not as good as the last employee?"

 

Just remember:

• Competence equals confidence. Do your homework about the company/division you are joining and you will feel more assured as to what will be expected of you; and what you can expect in return.

• Do make an effort to remember names and places on your first day. Use association techniques to secure names in your memory.

• Strangers often mistake shyness for rudeness or snootiness. If you are shy, be honest, and tell colleagues that you are a little nervous and you will find that most people will gladly help you with anything you need.

• First impressions count so do spend time on your image and grooming and be consistent with these. Be careful of being too flashy–you don’t want to be labeled as the “Bling Queen” on your first day.

• Do not spend your first day sucking up to the boss, flirting outrageously, painting your nails or taking an extended lunch break!

• Try to project a positive attitude and convey an air of professionalism no matter how lost you may feel.

• Never be afraid to ask questions. It is better to ask a hundred questions and get it right than to assume and get it horribly wrong.

• Do not speak negatively of your previous company or employers as this creates a negative impression.

• Always avoid gossip and try to steer away from office politics in a business environment.

Remember that all changes take time to get used to. Hang in there, you’ll soon feel part of the furniture.