Objectives for a New Job
By Ralph Heibutzki
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Reasons for Seeking a New Job
Fresh starts bring positive energy and especially at a new job. However, in many ways the real work is still ahead, because about 25 percent of all new hires don't survive their first year. Such figures underscore the need to make a positive first impression, which can define if you'll succeed or fail. You must show that you're excited to be there and -- most crucially -- a readiness to immerse yourself in the organization's goals.
As the new person, you'll most likely be expected to function in a collaborative atmosphere. Succeeding in such an environment requires you to build trusting relationships. Choose your friends carefully, however. Take note of who knows whom, and how they behave around team leaders and management. Always be mindful of the impression that you're making and the information you're sharing.
Defining Expectations
Lack of direction is a common complaint of new employees who don't work out. In reality, you're most responsible for your own success or failure. When you start a position, request a meeting with your supervisor to discuss your performance expectations. You should also review how the organization measures success and discover the pitfalls to avoid. Once you're given those facts, you can set clear goals to improve your chances of success.
Listening Before Talking
If you don't know why you're doing a specific task, your chances of succeeding at a new job drop drastically. That's the feeling of career consultants Milo Sindell and Thuy Sindell, as cited in a June 2006 "CNN Money" column. To make the best impression, listen before you talk. Ask questions about what's happening and stay focused on the goals of your company, group or team.
Once you settle into a new job, it's easy to forget about the big picture, author and speaker Hannah Morgan advises in an October 2012 column for "U.S. News & World Report." As a general rule, you should commit to developing new skills, since you'll likely want to explore a new opportunity down the road. For similar reasons, you should monitor trends that affect your employer as well as your industry.
Showing Commitment
Nothing deflates an employer's interest more quickly than perceptions that you're not really committed to the job. As the new person, all eyes are on you, so draw a firm line between work and home. Avoid making personal calls, sending personal emails or taking long lunch breaks. Whenever possible, offer to tackle a new task or help someone who seems overloaded. Such actions build the respect needed to make a good impression with new co-workers.
CNN Money: Ask Annie -- Fatal Mistakes When Starting a New Job
Forbes: Tips for Young Professional Starting a New Job
Entrepreneur: 10 Challenges for Your New Year
Inc.: How to Make an Employee's First 90 Days Successful
University of Minnesota: Onboarding New Employees
Ralph Heibutzki's articles have appeared in the "All Music Guide," "Goldmine," "Guitar Player" and "Vintage Guitar." He is also the author of "Unfinished Business: The Life & Times Of Danny Gatton," and holds a journalism degree from Michigan State University.
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1 Personal Goals Related to Intellectual or Professional Goals
2 How Should Employees React to Conflict With Their Supervisors?
3 How a New Manager Deals With Old Employees Not Listening
4 How to Stay out of Trouble at the Workplace