subject: How To Fit In At Your New Company [print this page] Even if you went to a great college, there is no way to get a perfect education on what you will experience at work. Aside from the actual work that you do, you will be surrounded by a variety of personalities, prejudices, and people who have their own agendas. A version of this unique situation will present itself at every company you work, and you must learn how to fit in. Another thing you will have to learn is each company's culture.
Differences Need to be Accepted
Imagine your boss at your first job yelled if the phone wasn't answered. You decide to answer a call at your co worker's desk at your second job. Your new coworker yells at you for answering their phone. The rules at every office is different, it may feel like you can't win.
It was made very clear that a call shouldn't ever reach voice mail at your first job. Your second company had a different view. Every company you work will take time to learn the details. The way to accomplish this is to ask a lot of questions and approach each new job with an opened mind. Hopefully you will meet some friendly souls who will take the time to show you the ropes.
A Glance At Company Culture
Company culture applies to a lot of things including interaction with co-workers, interaction with customers, and even the way that you dress. It can be difficult if you have been out of the job market for a while to know how to dress for work. If it's a large company it may have a handbook that will outline the dress code. Your should observe your colleagues to see how they dress, it's one of the best ways to determine what's acceptable. Also watch their mannerisms. If everyone one uses cell phones in the workplace, you can probably keep yours turned on during the day. If no one else seems to be using their phones, the best option is to keep it on vibrate, or off, and in your bag.
When you are faced with so many new things starting at a new company, it is surprising to see anyone be successful. But if you go in with an open mind, ask a lot of questions, and try to play by the culture rules, you will find it much easier to fit in with the new crowd. A person with an open mind will not assume things about other people or a company. Allow yourself time to adjust and fit in. Don't come in knocking down walls like a bulldozer, it is better to softly float in like a butterfly.
