Business

7 Key Things to Know Before Starting a New Job

Every year, millions of people start new jobs. In fact, job hopping is currently on the rise, and 64 percent of workers favor job-hopping over sticking with the same position for years.

If you’re one of the millions of people starting a new job this year, then you’re probably wondering what you can do to make sure it’s a success.

Check out this guide to learn the top things you should know before starting a new job.

1. Drug Testing

One thing you’ll want to be aware of is whether or not the company does pre-employment and randomized drug testing.

We’re not here to judge you about your lifestyle choices, but we are here to tell you that failing a drug test will cost you your employment, so you want to make sure you’re aware of the rules.

It’s also very important to be aware that just because marijuana is legal in your state, doesn’t mean the company you’re working for allows marijuana use. If you work for a national or international company, then chances are that they have policies against marijuana.

If you’re a regular marijuana user, then be sure to check out this guide on how to pass a marijuana drug test.

2. Know That You’ll Make Mistakes

If you’re a perfectionist, the idea of making mistakes at a new job can be a tough pill to swallow.

However, it’s important to know that when you mess up in the beginning, it’s not the end of the world. And, that making mistakes is actually a sign that you’re taking a risk and looking to grow.

With that being said, however, you don’t want to make a mistake that could’ve been avoided had you simply asked a question. We know it may seem like you’re annoying everyone with your questions in the beginning, but trust us, asking the right question and doing it right is better than avoiding questions and making a big mistake.

3. Be Careful with Early Demands

When first starting a job, you want to be careful about making demands in terms of how you want your schedule handled and how you want your work handled.

However, it’s very important to tread lightly in this area and to keep in mind that you need to earn trust. When you prove yourself by showing up consistently and producing good work, your employers will be more likely to give you some leniency.

4. Set Healthy Boundaries Right Away

If you don’t set healthy boundaries right away, you may find yourself in a toxic work environment or in a place where your employers take advantage of you.

By setting healthy boundaries, you’re clarifying what is and isn’t acceptable in terms of how late you’re willing to work, how many hours you’re willing to work each week, and how personal you’re willing your work relationships to be.

Once you set the example that you’re willing to bend on some things, it can be tough to go back. For example, if your manager sends you an email over the weekend and you respond, then they may assume that you’re okay with communication after hours.

Therefore, make sure you’re clear with your boundaries right away.

5. Mind Your Business

While it’s important to be social with your coworkers, there’s a difference between making small talk and putting yourself in the center of office drama.

Unfortunately, many work environments are full of cliques, gossip, and untrustworthy individuals. Unless you’re a supervisor or you work in HR, all this “extra stuff” is none of your business.

So, stick to getting your work done and making harmless small talk with your co-workers.

The exception to this rule is if you see someone doing something unethical. If this is the case, you should report what you’ve seen to a supervisor or to HR.

6. Create Good Time Management Skills

When starting a new job, it doesn’t take long for the work to pile up, especially if you’re working in the corporate world.

If you don’t develop good time management skills, these tasks can quickly become overwhelming.

In order to maintain good time management skills, you should:

  • Set priorities
  • Maintain lists of items that need to be done each day and each week
  • Schedule blocks of time to address certain items

Also, keep in mind that it’s okay to say ‘no’ if you’re feeling overwhelmed. However, the important thing to do is to say ‘no’ without really saying ‘no’. In other words, if you’re asked to complete a project, you can either share your obligations or negotiate the due date.

Also, don’t be afraid to ask your manager to help you set your priorities so you know you’re putting the right amount of attention on each project.

And, if others are constantly asking you to pitch in on items that are outside of your scope of work, then you’re going to have to start saying no. Otherwise, your own projects may start to suffer.

7. Plan Well for the First Day

When starting a new job, you want to make sure you plan well for the first day.

Here are some things you can do:

  • Pick out your outfit ahead of time, making sure that it fits with company culture
  • Research the company and the company’s higher-ups
  • Practice the commute
  • Prepare some light conversation items
  • Get a good night’s rest

By being prepared, you’ll show up more confident and less anxious.

Starting a New Job: Are You Ready?

As you can see, there’s a lot to keep in mind when starting a new job. But by following these new tips, you’ll be sure to kill it in your new career.

If you liked this article, be sure to check back in with our blog for more career-related tips and tricks.

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