Pay attention when you meet people
You’ll be rushed from one introduction to the next as you meet your new coworkers. This can leave room for committing embarrassing social mistakes such as forgetting the person’s name seconds after they’re introduced. Make it a point to pay extra attention when meeting your coworkers. Smile, shake hands firmly, and repeat their name back to them. Saying a name out loud helps commit it to memory. Politely say “goodbye” or “it was nice to meet you” before walking away, so you don’t give off the impression that you didn’t care to meet them.
Request to meet your boss
When you start a new job, a coworker or human resources manager often shows you around the office. Ask this person if they can introduce you to your boss. Your boss may be busy at the time, but they can help you set up a meeting with them later in that first day. Asking to meet your boss shows that you’re proactive and take initiative.
Set up your workspace
In between filling out paperwork and onboarding meetings, you may experience some down time. Use this time to set up your workstation and make sure you have everything you need. Learn how to log on to your computer and make sure your voicemail is set up. If there are extra supplies that you need, find out where those supplies are or if there is a process for ordering them. Getting everything set up on your first day allows you to jump right into your work on day two.
Figure out the culture
If you pay close attention to how people interact with each other in the office, it’ll be easy to spot the people who embody the company culture and are well respected. Make one of those people your role model. They’ll be able to help you fit in to the company culture and quickly earn the respect of your coworkers.
Dive in
Don’t wait around to be told what to do. If you aren’t given an assignment during your first few days at work, find one. An employer wants to see that you’re a self-starter and not afraid to jump right in.
Follow the above suggestions, and you’ll be sure to make a great first impression on your new coworkers and employer. As long as you smile, are polite, and can be proactive, you’ll quickly gain respect and won’t end up back on the job market. If you haven’t landed your next job opportunity yet, let the experienced recruiters at Area Temps help get your foot I the door at some of the leading companies in Greater Cleveland and Akron. Contact our team of experienced recruiters and our personnel supervisors will work with you to find the perfect assignment.
