5 Ways to "Go Pro" in Your First Job

Every new employee is (hopefully) going to have some kind of an orientation checklist. It’s usually focused on the logistics and details of starting work in a new organization. So here are some things you may not find on that list, but are essential to you Going Pro in your first job.

 

They are:

 

1.    Build a strong foundation with your manager.

2.    Build relationships in the workplace.

3.    Learn about the culture.

4.    Date your job.

5.    Document your journey.

 

 

1.    Build a strong foundation with your manager.

So much of your first job excitement is about figuring out what tasks you need to complete, the people you’ll be working with and where your workspace is.

One equally important mission is to get the relationship with your manager off to a good, strong start.

Missing this step can create heartburn and stress later on, once the rosy glow of the onboarding honeymoon has faded.

Action steps:

• Find out your manager’s goals, and what you need to do to make him successful.
• Set up a regular one on one time so you can get to know each other, and learn to work together.
• Get clear on your top 3 priorities and timelines so you know what’s expected of you.

 

2.    Build relationships in the workplace.

As a student, relationships weren’t really essential to your learning process. But in the workplace, relationships are how work gets done. Nearly everything you do will be collaborative.

Action steps:

• Identify the key 5 to 7 “must know” people you’ll be working with.
• Set up one on one’s with key colleagues to get to know them, learn how they work, and how you can best contribute.
• Make a point to meet and thank support staff, admins, IT help guys or anyone who helps you get started.

 

3.    Learn to navigate the culture.

Culture is basically all the rules of the workplace that are not written down. For example, are you expected to read and respond to email on weekends? Are you expected to join the team for a Friday night beer fest?

See? Important to know, but not on the checklist! Hopefully you asked culture questions in your interview. But if not, now’s the time!

Action steps:

• Ask your manager to describe the culture, and ask what the three most important things are that you need to know.
• Do the same with your colleagues. Ask them to tell you what they do and do not like about working there. Their answers will shed light on the culture.
• If there’s a support person, admin or other

 

4.    Date your job.

In the first 30 to 60 days, allow yourself to give your emotion and energy to getting acclimated to your job. It is, after all, like a new relationship in your life that needs attention and nurturing.

The transition to a 40-hour workweek may be a physical shock. Give yourself the luxury of really focusing on your own personal startup.

Action steps:

• Come in early; prepare to stay late and take an “all hands on deck” approach to your work.
• Offer to help anyone with anything they may need help on.
• Don’t plan any big social activities or vacations while you’re getting up to speed.

 

5.    Document your journey.

Keeping track of your work, progress and accomplishments is not only necessary for your job; it’s essential to your career. Start now, so you can see your progress as you gain experience, and, document your growth.

Action Steps:

• Start a file exclusively for the projects you’ve worked on and accomplishments you’ve delivered.
• Update your file each week with key deliverables and skill developments.
• Use your file to update your LinkedIn profile, provide input on performance reviews, and validate your alignment with your key priorities.

 

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