New first time employees may benefit from a few good tips.
Observe first
You may have graduated with honors and you may have been the best in school but your co-employees don't need to know how good you are on your first day. Young employees sometimes feel the need to flap their wings a bit just to show that they are capable of handling bigger responsibilities. Being an insufferable show off however on your first few days may not necessarily earn you the respect of your colleagues. In fact, they may feel just a wee bit irritated by all the noise you're making.
The key is to observe how things are done at first. Relax and don't be too over eager. Once you get the hang of the corporate culture, you'll know how to best use your stunning abilities to your advantage.
Let your actions speak
Rather than brag about how many medals you've got framed back home, let your co-employees be the judge of your abilities. Make sure that you do your work diligently, conscientiously and correctly and people will start to appreciate you even if they never knew you were really good to begin with.
Follow at first
Yes, it may be good to have your own ideas and to voice them out at the right time. Some companies in fact prefer fresh new employees who are vocal and driven. In other cases however, it would be a good idea to simply just follow orders and instructions first. Do not openly contradict or oppose your boss and superiors on your first week unless you are asked to give your opinion or unless you are asked to do something illegal. If their instructions are work related, then just do as you are told. The time will come when you will have earned their respect. When that time comes, you will have earned the right to speak up.
Keep things to yourself
One of the best job related tips is to keep your personal life, the lives of others and your negative opinion of others to yourself. Corporate gossip is never a good thing to help propagate. It is a great way to stir a hornet's nest and for you to earn the ire of your colleagues and the disgust of your boss.
Check your attitude at the door
There are just some people who are so easy to get along with. One of your first objectives should be to learn how to be that kind of person. Try to make friends and get along well with your co-workers and your boss. This is usually easier to do if you leave your “attitude” and your prima dona complex at the door. Getting along well with everyone is the best way to ensure that you will have a happy life at work.
