Each day hundreds of job seekers become new hires and start new careers. There is excitement and anticipation that the new role will offer opportunities to contribute significantly. However, starting a new job and being successful during those first crucial months is not always a smooth transition. Few new hires know how to make create “impact” in the right way.
Here are some keys to a successful new job on-boarding experience.

Article by Denise L. White

Principle Consultant
dwhite1118@hotmail.com

Here are some keys to a successful new job on-boarding experience.

1. Set goals for consistent performance. Discuss your goals and the organization’s objectives with your manager. Next prioritize your strategy on how you can contribute to the company’s success. Don’t burn yourself out trying to make a quick impression. Marcus Buckingham, management expert states in order to be successful you must play to our strengths. By focusing and using your strengths you will build a portfolio of successful achievement. A word of caution: Trying to do too much too fast can lead to mistakes. Remember to balance your performance between “quick hits” and long term accomplishments, and you will be viewed as a solid contributor. Focus on the right things
2. Know the rules of the game. Determine who the key players in the organization are. Identify the formal and informal communication networks. There are individuals in strategic positions who hold critical information. Get to know those people and learn from them. They are often the keys to being viewed as a productive team player.
3. Steer clear of “office politics”. Go into your new role with a mindset to stay out of the gossip mill. Get to know the people around you. Listen and learn about culture, but avoid being dragged into another parties’ war games.
4. Maintain professional attitude and respectful demeanor. You will not become friends with everyone in the company, and not everyone will like you. Do not be discouraged if confronted with indifference.
5. Demonstrate your willingness to be a team player. A recent article by Getronics, Inc., a IT solution and services firm recommended
   a. Creating partnerships. Successful leaders from a variety of industries have one thing in common- they are wonderful networking gurus. They get to know people very quickly and engage them in their activities. Don’t be afraid of asking for help. People will provide you with ideas and suggestions that you have not even thought of, and relationships will begin to bloom.
6. Be visible in your first months. Establish a PVP (Personal Visibility Plan) Devise a plan to establish relationship with people at various company levels. People need to know who you are and what you bring to the table. Advertising agencies believe in the power of “branding”. Millions are spent on selling the benefits of products and services. What is your brand? How do you want people to think of you?
   a. Connect with others through networking activities. Go to meetings, luncheons, write for the company, contribute ideas and suggestions
   b. Offer assistance and support. Being willing to offer assistance to others goes a long way in building your profile as a team player. Volunteer for committee and task force assignments. It is one of the way of being seen and heard by those who can further your career.
7. Take care of number one. Establish goals for managing your health during this transition. Get appropriate rest and relaxation. Continue doing those things that energize you.

Taking these steps will enable you to be productive and creative contributor in your new environment.

Making an Impact Right Away the Right Way– White– 5-01-08. Used with permission from the author.