The first few days and weeks at a new job can lay the foundation for your
long-term success. Whether you’re starting your first ‘real’ job or changing to
a new position or employer, it helps to be prepared for the roller coaster of
emotion that will swoop you along in those early days. Feeling comfortable in
your workplace goes far beyond simply understanding your job responsibilities.
| • | Do your homework. Learn all you can
about the
corporate philosophy and culture of your new employer. Complete
employment forms, prepare lesson plans, make a list of questions you need
answered – do everything you can to ensure you feel prepared and in control
on that important first day.
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| • | Plan what you’re going to wear the
first week. Choose comfortable outfits that make you feel confident. The
first few days of a job are physically and emotionally exhausting and
wondering what to wear is a stress you don’t need.
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| • | Plan your route to work. Have an
alternative route in mind, in case you run into traffic or transit problems.
If you’re not sure how long it will take you to get to work, do a practice
run.
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| • | Make a good first impression. Eat a
healthy breakfast – you’ll need the energy boost! Leave in plenty of time to
arrive early. Walk in wearing a smile, make eye contact when you’re
introduced and be polite and friendly with everyone you meet.
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| • | Become familiar with your job
responsibilities. It can take a while to fully understand your role and
responsibilities, so be patient with yourself. Find out what is expected of
you and who is responsible for overseeing your work.
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| • | Get to know your workplace. Someone
will probably show you around on the first day – if they don’t offer, ask
for a tour. Note the location of the washrooms and the staff or lunch room.
If the layout of your school or office is complex, sketch a map to follow
until you know your way around.
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| • | Ask questions. No one expects you to
know it all on the first day. Ask as many questions as you need to, even if
you have to ask the same thing several times. Your co-workers should be a
readily available source of helpful information.
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| • | Learn the ground rules. Every employer
does things differently, so ask about policies regarding personal phone
calls, e-mail and visitors, surfing the Internet, etc.
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| • | Set up a file for job-related
information. Almost all new Peel board employees receive an ‘On Board’
binder that contains basic information to get you started. Over time, you
can add to this binder as you gather more information about board policies,
benefits, staff development and technology. Keeping all of your job-related
information in one place, right from the beginning, makes it easier to find
what you need when you need it!
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| • | Cultivate your interpersonal skills.
Establishing good relationships at work can make your daily routine more
enjoyable and productive.
| o | Treat your colleagues
and supervisors with respect and courtesy. Be sensitive to the needs of
others.
| | o | Avoid confrontations.
Make an effort to get along, even with people who may be ‘difficult.’
| | o | Pay attention to the
‘grapevine’ – important news often travels along informal channels. But
don’t get involved in malicious gossip, rumour-mongering or office politics.
It’s a small world and your reputation will follow you for years to come.
| | o | Don’t criticize your
job, colleagues or employer (previous and/or current) in public.
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| • | Be professional.
| o | Set rigorous standards
for yourself. Show initiative and work hard.
| | o | Listen carefully to
instructions and requests so that you understand your responsibilities.
| | o | Be dependable – arrive
promptly for work, meetings and appointments. Meet your deadlines and work
commitments. Do what you say you’ll do.
| | o | Improve your skills by
taking training and courses.
| | o | Admit your mistakes and
learn from them.
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| • | Listen and observe. You may have good
ideas for making improvements at work but be careful – these are tricky
waters. Learn how and why things are done at your new job before suggesting
changes. Make your suggestions professionally and respectfully.
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| • | Get involved. Participating in
committees, social events or fundraisers is a great way to meet people and
make yourself known in your workplace. Make a point of introducing yourself
when you meet people in the staff room or at meetings. Know your limits –
volunteer for projects but not at the expense of your job responsibilities
or your health.
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| • | Be prepared for problems. No job ever
runs smoothly all the time. Find out who you should talk to if you encounter
workplace difficulties.
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| • | Find a mentor. Make a connection with
an experienced colleague in your workplace. He or she may provide valuable
guidance on your career path and may help you cope with the ups and downs of
your first months in the new job.
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| • | Make a financial plan. Starting a new
job is the ideal time to review your
financial situation and set a
budget
that suits your new salary. If you want to pay off your
student debt, start a retirement savings plan or save for a new car, now
is the time to get started.
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