5 Steps to Success on the New Job   by Linda Trignano

You have spent a lot of time polishing your resume, your interviewing skills, and your image. You've worked hard to land that new job. You arrive on your first day and are eager to dig in but there is a period of adjusting to the company culture that often feels like someone put the brakes on your enthusiasm.  But don't make the mistake of allowing this period of adjustment to your new company to go on too long!  Follow these 5 steps during the early weeks to move your career forward and ensure your success.

1. Get to know the organization.  This includes identifying the key people in the organization and making sure you know how the organization works, both the formal and informal organization.  Remembers names/titles quickly. While the informal organization may be a bit harder to identify, it is imperative that you learn how work gets accomplished through this informal channel.  

2. Know your immediate manager's goals.  Understand your manager's style of communication.  This includes knowing how much information they want from you, when they want an update.  Know what is expected of you, what your goals are, how you will achieve them.

3. Identify the major company projects.  Learn what the key projects are in the company and how your job links to these major initiatives.  Identify who is involved in these projects, who the project leaders are and how you get yourself involved in some of the key projects. 

4. Map a plan for some early successes.  Be action oriented.  Take the initiative.  Create a plan for yourself - don't wait for your boss to do this for you.  Show him/her that you are a person who can help them to be successful.

5. Document your strategy, timeline and accomplishments.  Keep a record of your accomplishments.  Meet often with your manager to ensure that you are on track with his/her plans.  If not, be willing to adjust your work to address your manager's strategic plan.

Following these 5 steps will give you an edge on succeeding on your new job.  Remember, there is always a "new kid on the block" timeframe, so be willing to accept that you may have to work a little harder in the beginning to fit in and show your new manager that you have what it takes to succeed.  Not just your success, but his or her success as well!

About HR Performance Solutions:

With over 20 years of experience in a corporate environment, HR Performance Solutions, LLC offers our clients support  in training and mentoring teams in the public/private sectors, ensuring best HR practices are being followed and providing individuals with the coaching tools to successfully handle career transitions.  HR Performance Solutions' founder Linda Trignano is focused on helping companies more effectively handle their people related functions. We help businesses increase employee value by leveraging our expertise in human resources and communications to ensure that clients incorporate HR "best practices" into their business.  HR Performance Solutions brings a unique approach to its clients. By integrating problem identification, action plan development and employee acceptance into every engagement, we produce results that drive company profits and value.      

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