The Running in Process

Tips on mastering your new job

Starting a new job is never easy. For many companies, the first three months are considered as ‘probationary period’, kind of a trial phase. During this time, the employer will be testing your knowledge and monitoring your work performance, to determine whether you will be the right fit for the role and if you mesh well with your colleagues.

In addition to your resume and the experience you gathered over your professional career, you should find ways to demonstrate that you are dedicated and determined to succeed within the industry. You demonstrate this by taking ownership of your duties and mastering your position.

Below are some tips to help you to master your new job;

1.  Invest in Higher Education

When furthering your studies in your line of work, it demonstrates that you are fully committed to mastering your position. Through further education you will also open opportunities to new career paths, and make it easier to change jobs in the future.  

2.  Get knowledgeable

In a new job, it is also important to know what’s happening in the world around you, especially in your field. One must keep themselves up to date with current affairs, new trends and schemes. You can do so by reading professional articles, newspapers, journals, attending workshops, conferences or events, attending training courses or even doing your own research online. Following ‘the competition’ online and putting yourself out there could also be beneficial to you.

When it comes to networking it is about forming trust and helping one another towards a goal. Being visible by raising your profile will benefit you when networking. It is essential in a career building and a great opportunity to exchange best practice knowledge, stay up to date with the latest trends in the industry, learn about business techniques and even gain new clients.

You can gain a lot through networking, stay attentive, ask questions and take note. No matter how experienced and qualified you are there is also something you can learn from one another. Getting involved and staying engaged shows that you are enthusiastic about what you do.

3. Stay Positive

Staying positive is key, especially in a new job. Make sure that you are happy with what you are doing and that this is truly what you want to be doing. Showcasing enthusiasm will likely draw in your co-workers and make initial interactions a bit easier.

4. Taking notes

Key in your work environment by utilizing your senses. Take both mental and physical notes on what goes on around you. While you are involving yourself in the culture of the company, also familiarize yourself with some of the other norms. Take a “fly on the wall” mentality while you are settling in to see how the company functions.

5. Set some goals

Within the first few weeks on the job, make sure to establish some beneficial goals. Ask yourself what you must accomplish in the future. Goal setting techniques are important in every stage of your career.

6. Build relationships

The relationships that you form with the people you are working with, can easily make or break your experience. Step out of your own comfort zone and attempt to interact with everyone you work with. Introduce yourself and always accept happy hour invitations.

7. Increase your participation

While you might still be nailing down your own duties, it is also important to extend a hand when possible. If you know that one of your co-workers could use your help, tying up a few loose ends on a project, offer your services. This will give you a chance to work with someone new, as well as showcase your ability and willingness to work in a team.  

8. Create good time management skills at work from the start

The trick to effectively using your time to complete all the given tasks is to organize your tasks and use your time effectively to get more things done each day. This can help you to lower stress levels and do better at your workplace. Time management is a skill that takes time to develop and is different for each person. Prioritize your important tasks to focus on those that are more important.