The first day on the job is a very exciting time. Finally, after all the resumes and interviewing, the company has extended an offer of employment. After the initial thrill of receiving the job offer and the celebration that comes along with it, the new employee must work hard to impress the new boss and succeed in the new position. Here's how.
What the New Boss is Looking For
All managers have three major traits they like to see in a new employee. These traits are organization, prioritization, and the ability to work on a team. The employee must appear to be proactive, energetic, friendly with teammates, and highly organized. He or she must also express a keen ability to prioritize new assignments whether by writing them down on paper, whiteboard, or on the computer. Check off projects as they are completed.
Television shows such as NBC’s The Office are popular because they are so true to life. Sure there may be some decisions made on behalf of the new boss that seem like a waste of time or are otherwise just plain dumb. The new employee should never complain or make derisive remarks about the manager – rumors could spread and the worker could be slapped with a probation warning or even a firing.
Don’t forget about wardrobe and hygiene. If piercings and tattoos were covered during the interview, keep them covered. Keep hair neatly styled, and wear a clothing style as per company policy (for most companies, it’s business casual). Teeth should be white in color, and fingernails trimmed. Unless told otherwise, never wear sandals to work.
Secrets to Success in a New Job
In any new career, the worker must employ several highly effective techniques to impress the boss during the first week of employment. A persistent smile, positive “can-do” attitude, and a willingness to go above and beyond is key. Also important is keeping personal phone calls to a minimum and cleaning and organizing the workspace daily. A messy office indicates the worker is disorganized and scattered. Also avoid placing more than one or two personal items (e.g., pictures) on the desk.
In the new job, the worker may have to work extended hours. In this case, a positive “can-do” attitude is key. Nobody likes to work 11- or 12-hour days for any length of time. But doing so in a positive manner and getting the work done as a key member of the team impresses the boss and will lead to promotions, corporate rewards, and higher raises. Stress professionalism, diplomacy, and proper communication. Become a “yes” and “sure, I can do that!” person.
Says the 1973 song, “Won’t Get Fooled Again” by The Who, “Meet the new boss, same as the old boss.” However, each new manager has differing management styles. Some like to micromanage, while others allow their workers a bit more leeway. Other bosses are downright intimidating and have not learned the value of motivation through positive reinforcement techniques. In any case, the new employee must focus primarily on organization, prioritization, and the ability to work on a team to succeed on the job.
Daniel Gansle - Daniel J. Gansle is the author of 2012: Day of Reckoning, graduate of Anthropological Studies and expert in ancient Mayan culture.
