Congrats on your new job! You managed to snag a position in this market condition. You might think the hard part is over — but now is the perfect time to prepare for the most challenging part: how to keep your job and create a lasting impression at your new company.
The first 90 days is the prime time to pull out all the stops and prove to the company that you’re an invaluable asset. If you’re serious about your job, then it’s important to put in just as much, if not more, effort into keeping it as you did to secure your position. Be sure to consider the following tips, identified by CyberCoders, to maximize your chances of making a great and — most importantly — lasting impression on your new company.
Start your new job out right with these tips for making a great impression from CyberCoders.
You probably started researching your role prior to your interview. But now that you’ve actually landed the job, you need a tighter grip on the latest news regarding your role, company and industry. Executive Recruiter Alexander Marvin from CyberCoders recruiting firm explains: “It depends on what kind of job you have. If you’re the new software developer, then you want to read up on new technologies."
HOW: Commit yourself to doing research on your own time by reading the news daily and following experts in the field via Twitter and blogs. To find relevant people on Twitter, use the hash feature by typing in “#,” followed by the topic in the search engine: e.g., #technology. For specific questions about your new company, you can get answers from real employees via online career resources, like CareerBliss’ Company Q&A feature and reviews.
Take all the preventative measures you can to ensure your prompt arrival. Consider going above and beyond by arriving 15 to 20 minutes early to get ahead and do the outside research mentioned in number one. This will display a sense of commitment, professionalism and enthusiasm as a new hire. Coming into the office consistently at the same time every day also shows your bosses and coworkers that you are a reliable individual.
HOW: Before your first day, it helps to do a practice drive to work to familiarize yourself with the area. Also, you should figure out a couple alternative routes to your work in case of road obstructions or unexpected traffic.
If you want to stick around, avoid asking for time off unless it’s absolutely necessary for two main reasons. Firstly, the first three months is a critical time for you to learn about and acclimate into the company culture, so any days off means you may miss out on valuable learning time. Secondly, asking for time off so soon after you’re hired may come off as unenthused and undedicated.
HOW: If you know you absolutely must take leave within the 90-day span, or if there is an emergency, explain the circumstance to your higher-ups as soon as possible — preferably before your start date. That way, your company is aware and can work in projects around it.
Be sure to make a focused effort in getting to know the key people you will be dealing with, which are likely your boss, human resources and the administrative professionals at your new company. Dive right into the dynamic of your office and introduce yourself to people you don’t know in the kitchen, bathroom, etc. Marvin makes the point, “The more people you know at work, the more comfortable you’re going to feel and the more productive you’re going to be.”
HOW: Use lunchtime as a means of getting to know more people at work. It helps to try and remember the names of other professionals you encounter in your office as well as their role in the company. However, it’s important to keep conversations professional by avoiding sensitive topics, such as religion and politics to ensure an air of respect. In fact, consider meeting up with professionals at your new company to chat and engage in friendly gossip even before your first day.
Once you are hired, show your enthusiasm for your new job. Don’t shy away from your new title — embrace it and show that you are committed to the success of the company. Be aware of your image, both online and in person, and take steps to be perceived as professional, productive and positive.
HOW: One easy way is to update your job title and company on your social media profiles, including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Announcing it publicly online shows your company that you are not only excited about your new job, but you also aren’t treating it as temporary or using it as leverage. Asking questions is also a great way to engage with the company.
