8 tips on how to thrive not just survive in your first month

It’s not enough to just survive at a new job; to be truly satisfied, we all need to feel like we’re thriving, that we’re ‘going places’, that we are at the top of our game. All this, however, takes hard work and dedication. Your employers sows the seeds for professional growth, but it’s up to you to create an environment where you can flourish. All this sounds very poetic, but how can you translate this to your working week? We’ve compiled our top tips to help you build a perfect foundation to thrive, not just survive in your first month.

Allow yourself the time to settle in

Remember that everyone is a newbie at some point in their professional lives. Take the time to relax into the role, assess your position and the people around you and above all else, to enjoy the next chapter in your life.

Have a smile on your face

Having a friendly and approachable persona at a new job is a given. Be conversational, offer a helping hand, and generally become someone that people like to be around – because we do spend an average of 43 hours a week at work!

Set the tone

Start as you mean to go on. Once you ace the first month, you should earn the respect of your boss and employees. This could then lead to greater responsibilities straight away that will be an invaluable boost your professional development. Stay focused, punctual and passionate and you’ll be fine.

Find a business mentor

When you start a new job, you’ll find that your peers will be helpful and approachable. Your department will probably buddy you up with an experienced team member, but if for any reason they overlook this initial action, seek out someone who you can learn the ropes from – preferably in your own department.

Get to know the industry inside out

Use your first month to soak up information like a sponge. Whatever your industry, it helps to know current trends and previous industry news to create strategies which meet the needs of future clients and customers. If someone asks you a question after a month, be sure that you can answer it or point them toward someone who can.

Go above and beyond

We’re not saying that you should get into the office at the crack of dawn and leave at sundown to impress in your first month, but you should expect to go above and beyond the basics of your job so people learn to rely on your for future projects. Be proactive and take initiative by pitching new ideas and processes if they will improve output.

Network across the company

In today’s open plan office environment, networking between teams is usually straightforward and rewarding. It’s vital to network with employees outside your immediate department in the first month to understand company structure and how each team integrates into the overall strategy to better understand your position in the business.

Ask for an initial review

Once you’ve been in the role for a few weeks, arrange a quick review to assess your progress at the business. Your peers may provide some constructive feedback that will prove to be invaluable in the long-run.

Looking for a career change? Browse our selection of jobs boards to find a role that suits you. Alternatively, take a look in our employability zone for job seeker tips and advice.