The first few weeks at a new job can be some of the most daunting — on top of trying to figure out what your day-to-day responsibilities will be, you have to remember a slew of new names and figure out simple things, like where the bathroom is.
As you get settled, it’s important to keep a few key things in mind. Here’s what to do in your first few weeks.
1. Actively listen, even if your mind is racing.
You’re going to be given a ton of new information. You’ll also be nervous, with the little voice in your head critiquing every move you make. Quiet that voice and pay attention to the information you’re being given. You won’t understand everything on the first day, but keeping your mind in the moment will help calm your nerves and help you focus on the responsibilities you’re going to be taking on.
2. Make eye contact.
It may be tempting to avert your eyes as you pass people in the hallway or cafeteria, but try to be bolder. Where appropriate, introduce yourself. Chances are good you’re going to be seeing a lot more of these people as you progress in your career. If you have to go get your computer set up, take a few minutes to chat with the person setting it up: how long have the been there? What do they do day-to-day? It helps to have a friendly face around.
3. Don’t pretend you know how to do everything.
It’s human instinct to not want to come across as unaware. As a newbie at a new company, embrace it. Don’t be afraid to ask the basic things (i.e. – where’s the copier) instead of pretending to know everything. Ask questions — but do it in a way that’s respectful of other people’s time. If you’re constantly interrupting your cubicle buddy, it’s ok to ask a question here or there, but if you have a slew of things to ask, it might be better to ask for a lunch with that person instead.
4. Keep a notebook.
If you’re asked to sit with someone more senior at the company to go over a certain system or process, listen and take notes — no one wants to have to repeat themselves a million times over.
5. Pack a backup bag.
We know this sounds weird, but it’s true — starting a new job often means being walked around the office and meeting tons of people and not being on the same schedule you were at in your former position. Pack a mini bag of snacks — it’ll come in handy when your new boss wants to have lunch with you at 3 p.m. and you’re starving by 1 p.m. You may also want to throw in a few grooming tools (hair brush, dental floss) so that you have some quick ways of looking and feeling refreshed, as well as a mini bottle of Advil if you’re prone to headaches.
6. Don’t wear headphones, even if you’re alone in a room filling out paperwork.
We know you work best when you’ve got music in your ear, but in the first weeks (and months) of a new job, you want to make sure you’re not tuning out everyone around you. It’s ok, even preferable, to look somewhat on edge in your first few weeks.
Remember, it takes weeks and months to get acclimated to a new office. Don’t try to rush it, but be conscious of your behavior and your actions along the way. And don’t forget to do your homework ahead of time: sites like Comparably can offer valuable data from current employees about an employer’s culture, leadership and perks and benefits.
