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FIRST FEW DAYS AT A NEW JOB

Avoid these common pitfalls
PHOTO: ORCHID CHAKMA
ADRIN SARWAR
Your first few days at a new job are likely to fill you with a mixture of excitement and self-doubt. You will have a voice that keeps asking, “Am I doing this right? Do I fit in? Why did I sign up for this?” These questions are natural and they will keep cropping up from time to time. You will simply have to trust yourself and find the confidence to remind yourself that you will make it through. Avoiding these common mistakes can also help you navigate your doubts and find your footing at your new workplace, making those early days smoother.
Thinking you know it all
When starting a new job, it is easy to assume that your previous job prepared you enough to fit in anywhere and you already know everything. But remember, it is a new workplace, and every workplace has its own culture and way of doing things.
Take some time to observe and learn. In the first few days, people at your workplace will guide you on the proper and preferred way of doing things. So, grab that opportunity to learn more about the work and the work environment. You might regret not paying closer attention to these crucial moments later on.
Complaining from the get-go
As you start working on a new job, it is natural to want to start contributing ideas right away. You might have a different perspective on how things should be done, which is perfectly fine.
However, offering harsh criticism early on can backfire, making you seem hard to work with and leaving a bad impression on your colleagues. Rather than directly pointing out things you feel don’t work or suggesting major changes, ask thoughtful questions like, “What is the reason behind doing this particular thing this way?” or “How has this worked in the past?”
Questions like these not only show your curiosity but also allow you to understand the process and sprinkle in some suggestions for improvements.
Asking for detailed instructions constantly without trying first
While it is natural to want to seek constant guidance when you are starting a new position, try to avoid relying on others too much. Try to find a balance between looking for advice and asking for constant help.
When assigned a task, take the basic instructions and give it your best shot first. Even if you find your task challenging, avoid submitting a half-done job and expecting someone to step in and fix it. Instead, use your problem-solving abilities to navigate the difficulties as much as you can.
Approach your supervisor for aid only when you hit major hurdles. When doing so, explain your thought process for tackling the task as you go. The more they understand your methods, the better they can help guide you.
Taking the initiative to complete your work like this shows you are dedicated and eager to learn. While your employers won’t expect perfection from you immediately, they will appreciate sincerity and effort.
Overworking to prove your dedication
Some people throw themselves into creating the impression of being an ideal employee when they start working at a new place. In their rush to make a good impression, they over-commit to their tasks, take up every job that is offered to them, and stretch themselves thin with extra hours.
While dedication is important, it is also essential to set healthy boundaries from the start and maintain them. Focus on completing the tasks assigned to you with reasonable dedication within your working hours and not burdening yourself with too much work.
Thinking you have to be perfect
Starting a new job means learning and adapting; mistakes will be an inevitable part of this journey. Some days, you might feel frustrated with these obstacles and wonder if you made the right choice by starting this job. Your patience will be tested, and things might feel overwhelming. However, it is important to remember that when trying to fit into a new work environment, progress matters more than perfection.
Give yourself time to grow into the role. If things get too overwhelming, take a moment to pause and remind yourself that everyone faces challenges in a new job and you are not alone.
While dedication is important, it is also essential to set healthy boundaries from the start and maintain them. Focus on completing the tasks assigned to you with reasonable dedication within your working hours and not burdening yourself with too much work.