By Marjorie Mizes, FirstGen Ahead Coach
During the first few months of your employment, your colleagues and managers will form first impressions about you. Practice these skills to show your best self.
Listen.
There’s a reason we have two ears and one mouth. Pay attention to the ebb and flow of meeting conversations. Take note of who dominates the conversation and who are the listeners and thinkers.
Observe.
Note the way your managers and senior managers interact with each other. Note how they dress. Take your work and wardrobe cues from them.
Ask.
Don’t be afraid of asking good questions such as, “What else was considered before it was decided to do XYZ? How did that work out?” Make sure you don’t repeat questions that someone else has already asked.
Contribute.
You can quickly add value and make new contributions to your new organization. It begins by raising your hand. Say yes to helping on a new project or leading a volunteer program. Show your organization they can rely on you by doing what you say you will do. You might feel a little bit out of your comfort zone, but that’s an indicator that you are growing.
Avoid.
Avoid gossiping and negativity. When you hear people gossiping, don’t contribute to it–walk away from the conversation. Gossip is an energy drain and serves no value to your organization. Don’t be a part of it.
While you don’t need to be a sunny optimist all the time, be someone who is always open to hearing, listening, and learning. Stop yourself if you catch yourself saying, “That won’t work.” or “We can’t do it that way.”
