Your New Boss

Starting a new job can be a source of stress, particularly if you are uncertain about some (or many) aspects of your job. It doesn't have to be that way. A friend recently got a new boss - but kept the same job - and asked me for some advice. Here are some tips I gave him, plus a few directed at anyone starting with a new employer.

1. Be Prepared. If you are new to the company, read as much as you can about its products, customers, competitors, and people. Big Picture: If you find what appear to be weaknesses of any sort (customer complaints, seemingly stronger offerings from other companies), think about how you would address them if you could. Small Stuff: Know your route to work. Get there early. Think about things that could go wrong and make sure you have adequate plans in place.

2. Know Your Role. Understand the important role your position plays in the company. Think you're not important? Maybe you are in the wrong place.

3. Look the Part. People who don't already know you will form opinions about you quickly. Sorry, but that's just the way it is. Smile, be open and friendly, and be well groomed and dressed appropriately for the work environment. On your first day, why not dress up a bit? You're new, everybody knows that. 

4. Anticipate Next Steps. When you receive an assignment, think (or ask) about how it fits into the big picture or is part of a larger effort. Knowing how what you do will be impact other roles will help you do better work. Knowing how what you do fits into the mission of the company will help you make better decisions, and perhaps over time enable you to make suggestions for improvements.

 5. Over Communicate. Never make your manager wonder what you are working on, where you are, when you will get your work done, or if you understand what you are supposed to be doing. Try sending the boss a brief summary of accomplishments for the week on Friday afternoon, and let him or her know what you will be doing next week. Do this until they tell you to stop, and you will definitely make a good impression.

6. If Something Isn't Clear, Ask. Trust me: you will not offend your manager by asking for clarification on an assignment, or asking for a firm due date, or asking for help prioritizing your work. Make sure there is no confusion upfront and you will have less stress. They won't be worrying about whether or not they will get what they asked for, and neither will you.

7. Exceed Expectations. Try to beat the deadlines if you can. But pay attention to how much time you spend on assignments, and don't overdo it. Again, ask if you are on the right track - don't be shy and don't make assumptions. Your first few weeks are critical in establishing a good relationship with the new manager and he or she will appreciate your desire to do the right thing. Don't think you are bugging him or her, they will welcome your interest.

8. Don't Get Discouraged. It will take some time to establish your reputation with your new manager and/or co-workers. Try hard to make the best impression you can early on, and they will look on you favorably. It's not that hard - show that you care, listen, react, and work hard and you will be exceeding expectations before you know it.