Finding your feet in a new workplace

Everyone likes to be in their comfort zones. But to thrive and actually grow as a professional, one must find it in themselves to adapt to the workplace rapidly. This almost seems like a prerequisite in the modern competitive job market. As a newly recruited member at an organisation, one often finds the adaptation period to be very nerving or at times suffocating.

In the professional arena, especially if you are a new addition to the workplace the first obstacle you'll find is getting a clear idea about your duties, to what extent does your command cover or technical issues that often confuse you. The best way to tackle all this is by asking questions. Understand that in order to manage what people expect from you, you must first know how to get the job done. So, go around and ask your boss and your colleagues for help.

To get comfortable you must know the people you're working with. Go around and talk to your co-workers. Ask for their feedback on a task you completed or get them to share their good and bad experiences in the job. Not only do you get to know another person but you also get to learn some of the unwritten rules of the office.

You have to observe the workplace culture. It is wise to always dress on the same wavelength with the majority of your colleagues. More importantly, observe the pace of work everyone maintains, the frequency of breaks they take and how they manage sound vertical relations. Remember, punctuality is a priceless tool when it comes to being a novice or a pro at your job.

TahmeedAlam Sameen, a Global Graduate at British American Tobacco Bangladesh had something similar to share from his experience. He says "When I was new, having the patience to learn and accept new cultures, knowing new people and actively seeking help from my peers helped me loads into melting into the environment."

There are some things you should avoid at all times. Like biting off more work than you can chew, bluffing about a certain skill/issue and drawing comparisons with your previous jobs. Always seek clarification whenever you get confused, asking too many questions won't hurt when you're new.

As cliched as it may sound, don't try to completely change yourself for a new post. Rather be perceptive about the environment and the people, and be outspoken when it comes to queries and confusions.

Naveed is studying Marketing at BUP. Other than being devastatingly comical he likes awkward silences and football. Reach him at naveed1327@gmail.com.