Starting a New Job

So you got the job, now what? I recently found myself in the same position. After being hired as a US Census Bureau Enumerator and four days of training, I found myself in yet another new position: Crew Leader Assistant. I no longer was in the job I had applied for. Same department, newer job. I'd been selected for a managerial position. New jobs or changes in job positions can be difficult.

New jobs are full of learning new management styles, coworker habits, and job responsibilties. This is such a daunting challenge to adjust that 46% of rookies wash out in the first 18 months and 53% of managers and executives brought on board from outside are gone within a year.


So how do you maintain your new job and make a smooth transition? A CNN interview with large company career specialists provides some tips for making the most out of a new job:

1. Know your responsibilities and the goals your boss expects from your within the first 6 months to a year. Write the timeline down so that you know if you're ahead or behind.

2. Ask questions. If you're trying to "reinvent the wheel" on your own, your manager will wonder why you are wasting so much time. Ask coworkers and your boss if you're having trouble understanding something in the workplace. You're new, so people will understand if you're asking questions.

3. Build good relationships with your coworkers. They'll be more willing to help you out and you'll feel more comfortable. If you encounter hostile attitudes, follow three students: First, try to bring to the surface the reasons behind the attitude. Ask questions to understand what's really going on. Second, change the conversation. Focus on the goals of the group, team, or company. Finally, rise above. Take the high road if all else fails.