Starting a new job can be exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. You’re eager to make a great impression and show that you’re the right fit for the role. However, in your enthusiasm, it’s easy to make mistakes that could impact your early days at a new job. To help you navigate this transition smoothly, here are five new job mistakes you should avoid making when first starting out.

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1. Don’t Pretend to Know Everything

You might feel tempted to show off how much you know while on the job in order to impress. While first impressions are important, showing off and acting like you know everything can backfire. If you’re too confident in your ability, and you say or do something that’s wrong, you’ll embarrass yourself and risk the new job in the process. Seeking help and guidance, or simply asking for clarification, can help you round out your skills in a more appropriate way and demonstrates humility where it counts.

2. Don’t Isolate Yourself

During the first few weeks, it’s a good idea to start building new relationships with your coworkers. Isolating yourself by eating lunch or taking breaks alone, or avoiding interactions with others, will not leave the best impression and will keep people guessing. Be friendly with your new coworkers, try to find common ground, and engage in active listening so you can relate to them better.

3. Don’t Overcommit

You want to make a good impression, and saying “yes” to additional work is a tempting avenue to take to achieve that. However, doing this too much can lead to overcommitment, which stretches your personal resources too thin. Focus on understanding your core responsibilities first, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Quality over quantity is key in the early stages of a new job.

4. Don’t Ignore Company Culture

One of the worst new job mistakes you can make is not paying attention to company culture. Every company has its own unique culture, and it’s important to observe and adapt to it. Don’t ignore the unwritten rules of the workplace, such as how people communicate, dress, or interact with one another. Take time to observe how things are done and adjust your behavior accordingly. If you’re having trouble fitting in, it could mean that the job isn’t right for you.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up

Problems occur when starting a new job, and you need to be brave enough to speak your mind about them. Workplace issues such as toxicity, hidden safety hazards, and other problems should be addressed before they stay their welcome. Give suggestions and feedback wherever it’s appropriate. Your fresh perspective is valuable and being proactive shows that you’re invested in your job.

Starting a new job is a learning experience, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. By avoiding these common new job mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for success and establish a strong foundation for your new career. Want to get started in a new career? Contact us today!