Friday, December 4, 2009

How to start on the right foot at your new job...


I get asked this question a lot by friends and acquaintances. Personally, I feel ill-equipped to inform such stuff, as I'm only in my early 20s - but I'll try my best to give a succinct answer to this.

So, it's your first day on the job and you're keen on making a good impression on everyone at work. Because how you present yourself can make or break you.

Here are the right steps in being a kick-ass employee:

1. Treat everyone well: Forget about people's statuses, be polite to everyone. Of course don't be too nice to the boss, you'll definitely be catapulted to the top of everyone's despised list.

2. Avoid areas of gossip: There will be certain areas of the office where people gather around and share juicy tidbits about other colleagues. As tempting it is to gossip about others, it's best to not comment about anyone.

3. Get to work on time:
Never be late! Bosses DO notice people who are punctual. Punctuality refers to attendance and the ability to meet deadlines.

4. Walk an extra mile:
Take on tasks above and beyond the ordinary. Also, stay in the office if a task needs to be done ASAP. Bosses do recognise effort and will think that you're an intelligent, smart and diligent person.

5. Admit to your mistakes:
Take responsibility of actions. If you've done something wrong, it's best to tell the truth. Don't even bother covering up your mistakes or pushing the blame to someone else, it'll backfire you at the end. And no one wants a plan that backfires.

6. Communicate well: Also, let other people speak as well. Don't rush what other people are saying. Sure you may know a lot about a particular subject, but don't shut down on what other people have to say. You could learn a thing or two.

7. Don't be a slacker: If you're boss comes in late for work, it doesn't mean you should either. Do that, you're no better than your boss.

8. Finally, don't buddy up with people just yet. Like high school, just scan the place. You want to make genuine friends, and not people who'll take your tidbits to the gossip table mentioned in step two. If you have a true lunch time, get out of the office by yourself. Though, if your boss asks you out for lunch, you should probably go.

Again, I feel ill-equipped to talk such things, but I hope this helps you out.

Happy reading!
5ft0

2 comments:

Icy said...

Also:

11. Start out as you mean to continue. If you need to leave early on Wednesday's to pick up your daughter, or you need an ergnomic keyboard, ask for it and expect it up front. They thought you were the right person for the job when they hired you; they're not going to change their mind now.

Death Wears Diamond Jewellery said...

since i started working at my latest job, my grandfather keeps telling me "please remember to be nice sarah." i have NO idea what he thinks id do that wasn't nice?! he must think im the most sullen bitch ever. seriously. thanks.

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