Your first weeks at work

Every company has its own work atmosphere, unwritten rules and hierarchy. Of course, you already know a thing or two about the company, but you only really get to know the people when you work with them. 

So, try not to judge and dominate the conversation, but observe first. This doesn't mean you shouldn't participate in conversations, but it does mean you should be a little more mindful of who is doing what before you start talking. Be curious; what do you see happening?

Naturally, your new colleagues want to get to know you better. And you are curious about who they all are. After all, you will be spending a lot of time working together, so it is good to know exactly who you are working wit hand who everyone is. But realize that it's all new to you and not to them. Some colleagues may have known each other for years.

Your manager will likely welcome you and give you a tour. But afterward, take the initiative to get to know everyone better, for example, by meeting people for a cup of coffee. It’ll quickly become clear who your immediate colleagues are, but feel free to ask your manager who would be helpful to meet.

Some colleagues only want a business relationship, while others share more privately. You don't have to become best friends, but socializing is part of the experience! Depending on the company's culture, the atmosphere and interaction can be very informal and personal or more professional. It’s important that you can work well together.

You’ll by dizzy at first by the names and roles of colleagues, and perhaps even customers and suppliers. Make sure you remember these things (writing them down often helps) or ask for an organisational chart, because nothing looks more disinterested than repeatedly forgetting someone's name or repeatedly introducing yourself to the same colleague.

Important: Always have a pen and paper handy. It helps you take notes of everything you hear.

The biggest misconception is that you should already know everything. By asking questions, you demonstrate that your interest. That you genuinely want to understand, get to know the company and do the job well. Sometimes certain things are perfectly logical to those who work there and  therefore aren’t  properly explained to newcomers. Is something always done  a certain way, but do you think it could be done differently? Don't be too stubborn about this, but certainly don't take everything for granted.

Important: Always have a pen and paper handy. It helps you take notes of everything you hear.

Be aware of working hours, dress codes, lunchtime habits, whether or not to make personal phone calls, and the use of social media during working hours, for example. Arriving on time automatically shows interest. Dressing well helps you stay in tune. These are small things that are often greatly appreciated by your colleagues and your employer.

Everyone understands that this is your first job, and you can always be late or make a mistake. It's important that you take responsibility for this.

Out of all those other applicants, they chose you. They see you doing the job. So go for it! Have confidence in yourself, in what you can do and who you are. The first few weeks may be grueling, but you’ll get through them. 

However, also be reliable, so keep your promises and let them know in time if something doesn't work out. This may seem unnecessary, but it will be greatly appreciated. There is no option to retake the exam like in your studies if you miss a deadline, for example, and the consequences can be enormous. Always consult a colleague or your manager if you run into any problems.

After all, such a busy work week demands a lot of energy, so don't plan too much other things -especially in the beginning -. A weekend full of parties and starting your second week tired on Monday is probably not the best idea.