Strategies to maximise utility during the first year of one’s career.
On average, a person spends 90,000 hours, roughly 10.2 years, of their lifetime at the workplace. These years are undoubtedly one of the most important parts of a person’s life. They recognise who they are as a person, and find meaning in the work that they do. For many, a career is an effective way to find purpose in life. However, it is a path riddled with challenges that must be overcome in order to find utility and happiness. The first year at any workplace sets the tone for the rest of their time there as well as their career. It is, therefore, crucial to be mindful of the strategies to make the most of it and keep the steam running.
Embrace Being the Newbie
Being the company’s new hire is nerve-racking. It is difficult to gauge older employees’ demeanour and attitudes, especially because people unknowingly create barriers. Being a new employee already carries the implication that they know little about the organisation, its operations and its culture. As a result, it is recommended to admit inexperience and ask questions regarding corporate policy, culture, and systems to their coworkers and supervisors regularly. This will not only assist them in acclimating to the organisation and its systems but will also give the impression that they are a hardworking individual dedicated to their job. This also allows the opportunity to create a rapport with bosses and coworkers.
Understand Leadership
An organisation operates in a hierarchical structure, where each level has one or more managers. As a new recruit, it is critical to learn the management’s leadership practices. Every leader has different expectations of their people and works in their unique way. Aligning oneself with how the boss leads can leave a great impression. It also makes navigating through tasks and expectations easier, paving the foundation for a productive relationship with managers or supervisors. This will be critical when the time comes to advance up the corporate ladder and assume more responsibilities as managers are more likely to recommend an employee who did well under their leadership.
Build Relationships with Co-Workers
Employees in any organisation must collaborate with colleagues from their own or other departments, meaning they will be exposed to people from all backgrounds and specialities. This is an opportunity to build relationships, learn about their experience, and show excitement and enthusiasm to work together. Developing and maintaining a solid working relationship with co-workers can mutually improve the job performance of both new employees and those already working there.
Be Proactive
Going above and beyond is a proven way to get recognised. This entails taking on initiatives without explicit directives from the bosses, for example, following up with clients during downtime, organising the workspace, and preparing for anticipated tasks ahead. These can demonstrate a willingness to learn and convey a good work ethic that can deliver value to the organisation. Additionally, new employees can increase their chances of being noticed and remembered the next time performance reviews are in order. However, being proactive should be done strategically as it is important to first fulfil the core objectives before taking on tasks to impress the higher-ups. If wanting to do a bit more results in a pileup of backlog, it could backfire and create a negative impression.
Establish Definite Goals
In the first year on the job, there is a lot to do and a lot to achieve. Indeed, at the workplace, growth, both personal and career-oriented, is expected. To do this effectively, setting clearly defined goals is paramount. A growth strategy should focus on what needs to be done and how progress towards achieving said goal can be measured. While this could be done solo, it is better to do it under the guidance of the supervisor or manager in charge of setting goals and expectations. Regularly getting feedback from these mentors will also help keep track of the goals and how far they are from being achieved. Getting a lot done is sure to boost motivation and feel rewarded when tasks are completed.
Communicate Through All Channels
One of the more common challenges faced during one’s first year of employment is getting used to professional communication practices. While it is important to talk about task progression and ask for help, it is just as vital to have formal records of communication. Developing a practice of requesting information, assistance, and deliverables over e-mail helps minimise liability and increases accountability. This also has a two-fold advantage – to be heard and remembered. When opinions are communicated thoroughly and with conviction, chances are management will take notice and make sure constructive ideas are not sidelined.
Be Optimistic
It is likely that new recruits will fail a lot in their first year of employment. What is important is the manner in which they regain momentum and take constructive criticism to ensure success in their next attempt. It is only natural that instructions will feel confusing, terminology will not make sense, and higher-ups will feel intimidating. To that extent, attitude is everything. New employees who display eagerness and enthusiasm are likely to be admired over those who convey nervousness. Being optimistic about needing to work hard, learn new skills on the job, make sense of complicated instructions, and come up with realistic solutions will instil a sense of reward into the employee’s mind, as well as add value to the organisation. This is perhaps the most important aspect of surviving in the workplace, not only in the first year but also in the years to come.
