You're Hired! Now What? 5 Tips to Stand Out in the Workplace
Editor’s note: This is the second blog post in a two-part series. To read part one, entitled “You’re Fired! Now What? 9 Shockingly Simple Tips,” please click here.
As you excitedly walk to your car, you immediately pick up the phone and share the good news: “Guess what? I got the job!” you exclaim. This is one of those moments when you feel strong and ready to take on the world.
If you're a student in an online degree program, this could be you, as graduation nears and you get ready to jumpstart your career with your soon-to-be-acquired degree.
After landing a job, those initial feelings of excitement start being replaced with first-day-of-school jitters. You start getting nervous, and as those stomach butterflies take flight, you ask yourself a simple question: Now what?
Allow us to help ease your nerves. Here are five simple tips on how to stand out as a new hire in the workplace.
1. Never assume.
I’ve heard it said that in every person’s mind, there is a whole new world. Never assume what a person is thinking. Make sure you ask questions and repeat what it is your employer is asking you to do. This will also minimize errors and boost your confidence.
2. Pay attention to your surroundings.
Pay attention to how things are done and adjust accordingly. Don't enter the office with your own set of rules, because they likely won't fly. Perhaps most importantly in this category: Dress for success. Pay attention to how co-workers dress. If you're stuck deciding between business casual and business professional, take note of your direct manager's attire before making a decision.
3. Don’t complain.
When concerns need to be voiced, make sure you privately approach your manager with a solution. Remember, you want to effectively build bridges of communication with your new manager - not cement walls where nothing can get through. Employers don’t appreciate complainers, so keep your comments constructive and on target.
4. Fit into tomorrow’s company today.
I think Robert Schuler summed it up best when he said, “The world of tomorrow belongs to the person who has the vision today.” Stay alert as to what your company’s mission is and complement that mission with your talents. See if your company provides tuition reimbursement. If so, take advantage of online learning as a means of advancing your education (and your ability to help your company reach its goals) without interrupting your current job.
5. Keep smiling.
Smiling puts others at ease and draws positive attention to you. Smiling is not only healthy, but contagious so spread it around.
May the following words from Abraham Lincoln prove true in your situation with a new job: “Whatever you are, be a good one.”
About the author: Laura Garcia joined Grantham University's Career Center in April 2012 as the Career Services Employer Relations Specialist. Prior to her current position, she was a GU Student Advisor and Financial Aid Officer.
Photo credit: stock.xchng
Do you feel like exploring the possibilities for your own career advancement? An online degree from Grantham University could be just the ticket to landing the job of your choice. Learn more by clicking here.