Strategies for workplace success

While first impressions are important, don’t stress too much.  You’ll have time to build credibility as your co-workers and managers get to know you better. Here are some tips to consider: 

• Arrive on time: give yourself plenty of extra time to get ready and travel

• If you feel comfortable doing so, introduce yourself to others

• Demonstrate enthusiasm for learning

• Listen carefully and take notes

No one expects you to know all of the answers, so don’t be afraid to ask questions when you are uncertain.  Asking questions demonstrates your genuine interest in the job and the organization. 

Try to convey a positive approach and a friendly, courteous and open attitude. Be sure to attend all orientation sessions. 

Don’t worry if you don’t make a “perfect” first impression. If you show enthusiasm, keep an open mind, get to know your co-workers and do your work well, you’ll be on your way to making a lasting positive impression. 

During your first few weeks or months, you will go through an orientation and “probation” period. This is a great time to show a positive attitude and contribute where you have the time and skills.

Learn as much company and job-related information as possible and strive for excellence on the assignments you are given, even routine tasks that you may be assigned in the early days of your employment. Take these assignments in stride and view them as an opportunity to show your teamwork skills.

In this initial phase, it is often not as important to impress them with knowledge and skills as it is to demonstrate your willingness to learn. In some organizational cultures and sectors, it can be more or just as important to show your ability to work as part of a team than to demonstrate individual achievement. Once your supervisor has observed your strengths (and areas for growth) first-hand, you’re more likely to be assigned more challenging tasks. 

Learn as much as possible about your new employer. If there is no manual, prepare a list of questions to ask your manager. Find out what the organizational structure is, the typical working hours, policies regarding time off (including breaks and lunches), computer and phone procedures and anything else you think will be helpful. If you have thoughts about how to improve policies and procedures in your first few weeks on the job, consider waiting to share your ideas if they’re not about something urgent.

In the early days, it can be a good strategy to prioritize orienting yourself to the role and environment, establishing trust, and building rapport with your colleagues. Developing an understanding of the organization can help inform any suggestions you want to make, and building trust can help coworkers well-receive these suggestions. 

Each organization has a workplace culture: the unspoken beliefs and attitudes of the organization that reflect their views on management, customer service and the value assigned to employees, company budgets and finances. Culture varies from organization to organization and may differ from department to department.

While some policies and procedures exist in writing, others will be more informal. For example, what are the more formal working hours, and what are the working hours you notice most people seem to follow? The decision on how much to adhere to these norms is up to you. Some folks, unfortunately, find themselves weighing work/life balance against the possibility of being viewed as less committed to their job and organization.

If you’re concerned that the work environment isn’t safe or following labour laws, learn more about your safety and rights at work.

Prioritizing your well-being and fostering a sense of safety and support in the workplace is paramount.

Firstly, seek out allies among your colleagues or within affinity groups if available. Building relationships based on mutual respect and understanding can provide a strong support network. Additionally, consider sharing concerns or discomfort with your supervisor or HR department. If you don’t feel comfortable with this or want support, you could connect with a trusted person in your network or a career advisor to discuss your options.

Engage in ongoing education about diversity, equity and inclusion to both empower yourself and contribute positively to the workplace culture. Lastly, remember to prioritize self-care, seeking out resources and communities outside of work that nourish and uplift you, helping to maintain a sense of balance and resilience.

A good manager realizes that, particularly in the first few weeks, you need training and guidance. If you are a recent graduate, the learning process at work will likely differ from what you experienced in school. Much of your learning will depend on your ability to listen well, ask questions, take notes and observe others. 

Find out exactly what is expected of you rather than assuming what is expected of you. Obtain a copy of your job description and discuss responsibilities and expectations with your supervisor. Clarify instructions and ask questions. You aim to ensure a common vision of your job, its parameters and objectives. What are the priorities of the role? How is your performance evaluated? How frequently and in what manner does your supervisor wish to be updated on your activities?

You may also want to request earlier feedback on your performance than is standard procedure (e.g., at the end of the first month or two instead of, or in addition to, at the end of your trial period). This feedback doesn’t have to be formal; it may simply involve scheduling a time to sit down and discuss your progress and how you’re feeling. Early constructive feedback can be very helpful in keeping you on a successful path. 

Your work is impacted by your relationships with your supervisor and your coworker(s). The following are some tips on managing your relationships to encourage a successful work experience.

Your co-workers

It is important to build strong working relationships with coworkers. Much of what you need to learn is not found in manuals but comes from other team members. Try to get to know them: consider if you’d feel comfortable going to lunch or coffee with them and listen to what’s important to them. Be cooperative and supportive, show appreciation when they help you and be sure to share credit when appropriate. By demonstrating an interest in your coworkers, their jobs and their lives, you are more likely to gain allies who will help you to succeed in your job and your career; and you may form friendships, too!

It is important to be a team player in the workplace. By working well with others, you build your reputation and increase your value to the organization. Volunteer to help co-workers if you can do so. Show an interest in teammates’ roles and pay attention to what is important to them.  Another way to be seen as a team player is to attend company social events or volunteer for a committee: these can be excellent opportunities to get to know your co-workers and can help advance your career.  

Your supervisor

A good supervisor can make a big difference in your overall enjoyment of your role. While some of your relationship with your supervisor is outside of your control, there are a few things you can do to improve your experience. Start by clearly understanding their expectations and your role’s responsibilities.

Regularly communicate your progress and any challenges you encounter—transparency builds trust. Be proactive; ask for feedback to show your commitment to growth and improvement. Also, take the initiative to understand your manager's communication style and preferences. Consider how you can best work with them, given your needs and preferences.

Lastly, show appreciation for their guidance and support when relevant. Recognizing their efforts in your development fosters mutual respect and a positive working relationship.

Ethical behaviour means “doing the right thing,” and it is governed by principles or standards in all organizations. Members of particular regulated professions must uphold codes of conduct which outline expectations regarding ethical conduct. If you’re a member of a regulated profession (e.g., teacher, engineer), be sure to refer to the relevant regulatory body in the jurisdiction in which you are practicing. 

Examples of behaviour considered unethical in many workplaces include:

• Lying, misleading or taking shortcuts 

• Breaching confidentiality

• Violating copyright laws

• Coming to work under the influence of alcohol or non-prescription drugs

• Theft or breach of security 

• Habitual lateness or absence with no reason given

• Copying company software for personal use

• Taking office supplies or other company property for personal use

• Taking longer lunches/breaks or coming in late/leaving early while being paid for this time

• Conducting personal business (e.g., checking email, visiting non-work-related websites) on company time 

These actions could sometimes be cause for dismissal. 

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