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Starting a new job is an exciting and challenging time. During your first few months on the job, you'll get to know your new employer, learn more about what's expected of you in your new position, meet many of your colleagues, and better understand your new company, its product and service offerings, and its customers.
During this time, your employer will also be learning more about youyour areas of strength, your special talents, how you work with your colleagues, your ability to meet deadlines, and so on. To help you make the most of your first three months on the job, we've developed these tips:
Performance anxiety is normal, but you can counteract it. Stay organized and accept that every job has a ramp up time; it can take several months to get in the swing of things.
Don't be afraid to ask questions.
Everyone understands that you are learning about the company and your job.
Learn what criteria your performance will be measured by.
The most common reason for falling short of early success and satisfaction in a new position is the failure to understand what management expects of you. Meet with your direct manager during your first week to clarify and document what will be expected of you during the first several months.
Set expectations for your job.
Ask your supervisor what your responsibilities are and how your performance will be measured. Also, help your supervisor set expectations about you. Don't work until 10:00 p.m. every night for the first two weeks unless you intend to do so all the time.
Be solution-oriented.
As a fresh pair of eyes, you may be able to identify some opportunities for improvement within the company. But don't go in criticizing the company or the people who run it; be positive and politically astute.
Meet with your manager.
If your expectations are not being met, make sure you bring this to your manager's attention. Put your thoughts and concerns on paper, and approach your manager. Usually there is a communication breakdown somewhere that can be identified and worked out through a meeting.
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