Tips for your first month on the job

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A first month on the job is almost like your first day in college. Make a wrong move and you could pay for it for as long as you continue to work there. However, making a good impression in the first month on a job isn’t too difficult. A few simple tips can help you sail through most of it. 

Here are some tips which will help you pass the acid test in the first month on the job:

• Don’t publicize your official activity on social networking sites- Organizations differ in their perception of social media. While some may be very cool about the whole phenomena of real-time digital information, others may not be as receptive about it. You just can’t take a chance in the first month by posting about your activities in office on Facebook and Twitter. Go slow and gauge the norms before taking a decision on social networking.
   
• Dress as the Romans do- Being a rebel is all very cool, but that won’t fetch you any friends in office, at least not in your first month. Dress like you belong to the place. Wearing strict formals in the field of advertising may not be too good an idea, since the environment is usually casual. Similarly, wearing casuals to work when you are in the banking sector is a complete no-no too.
   
• Know your team better- The first day on the job is often spent in introductions to team members. However, that is not enough. You want to bond with them since you will be spending most of your time in office with them. During breaks, have a conversation with them and try to know them better. Bond with them and soon, you will win yourself many friends.
   
• Stay reserved, but not too reserved- When you work in a new environment, you just can’t be sure who to trust. That’s why, it is always good to hold your cards close to your chest. Don’t blabber about yourself too much. At the same time, it is equally important not to be too reserved. Being too reserved could come across as arrogant, which is not good for your reputation in a company.
   
• Don’t show-off- Right, it is your first month on the job and you are trying to impress your boss. That is the right approach. However, you don’t want to put others off by showing off too much. While showcasing your skills, keep it subtle and not in your face.
   
• Observe and listen- When you enter a new environment, observing and listening can teach a lot about the place. Listen to what your peers and seniors say and observe the general work culture of the place.
   
• Never be late- Being late on the job is never acceptable, but it is a total sin in the first month of the job. Try to arrive before time, as it portrays you as a sincere employee.