15 Advice for New Employees

Show up to work at least ten to fifteen minutes before the start time.

Showing up on time is required, but showing up early makes you stand out. Bosses and supervisors note small things like this and use such “marginal” information when making critical decisions—contract extension, promotion, salary increase, etc. Ceteris paribus, all things being equal, small things on the margin are often what differentiate employees.

Similarly, do not leave right on time at the end of the day.

Spend ten minutes cleaning up your desk and ask your supervisor or boss if there's anything they need help with. In most cases, they won’t ask you to stay after your normal work hours. However, when they witness your positive demeanor and attitude at the end of the day, they will be impressed. And, should they actually need your help, they’ll be grateful for your willingness and help. They won’t forget that down the line.

Keep your work area clean and tidy.

Though your work area has been assigned to you, it’s not okay to be sloppy and messy. There are times when your supervisors or bosses may stop by or walk by your desk. And, if they find cluttered desks or stacks of unorganized paper, they’ll question your efficiency and effectiveness. That is why it's best to clean up your desk or organize things at the end of each day.

Take notes.

In general, supervisors and bosses hate repeating themselves to employees. So, take notes. Note-taking also shows that you're interested in learning to do your job well.

Ask questions and seek clarity.

Do not pretend to know everything or try to figure out everything on your own. Many young people think that asking questions makes them look “dumb” or “incompetent.” That may be partially true, but not asking and making mistakes will get you fired. So, it's always best to ask questions for direction and clarity. 

Do not ask for personal time off, at least in the first 3 to 6 months of starting a new position.

Your labor is exchanged for compensation. When you ask for time off, particularly for personal reasons, supervisors and bosses wonder if you're serious about your job and work. Sure, there are uncontrollable or unpredictable events and reasons. But you, as an employee, usually have the choice. And that's what they're carefully assessing—what is the employee’s priority? So, do not ask for time off for frivolous personal reasons.

Don’t use up all your sick days. 

HR folks and bosses always highly regard those who do not take advantage of sick days. Besides, you may actually get sick and need extra days off. Having “used them up,” then you’ll most likely end up losing part of your income. So, stay healthy, and read #6 in relation to this recommendation.

Put on a smile on your face and greet EVERYONE. 

Never pass by somebody at work without saying “Hi,” or at least making eye contact to acknowledge that person. Especially if you're a new employee, you don't know who you are talking to or walking by. That person might be a VIP client or someone very important to the organization. So, put on a smile and greet everyone. 

Dress “up” for work. 

It's always safe to overdress, but the converse can be detrimental. The way you dress for work will tell your boss how serious you are about work. Too many young people are all about their style and comfort. But imagine if there were unexpected meetings for which you were underdressed. That will leave a poor impression. Here’s a tip: have a set of professional attire at work (i.e., for men, a navy blazer, a white dress shirt, a tie, and dress shoes). That way, you can always be ready.

Don't be a loner.

That’s even if you are an introvert and prefer to be alone. You can learn a whole lot about your company and how to work effectively by interacting with co-workers. Short conversations over lunch or coffee can be very insightful and helpful. Just don't be a loner. 

Ask for a company calendar for corporate events. 

If there are corporate events or other important dates for your company, put that on your calendar and be mindful. Bosses and supervisors dislike employees who don’t show up to important events. Yes, such events may be on weekends or after work hours, so they may not be “mandatory.” But, again, your supervisors and bosses are indirectly and discreetly assessing your willingness to be a team player.

Do not divulge too much about yourself.

Sharing your personal beliefs and activities with your coworkers and bosses openly isn’t wise. You do not know their background, where they stand on politics, or what their personal beliefs are. Even if you do get to know others really well, keep a healthy distance. You can be friendly, but remember that you are not their friends.  

Make efforts and become better at what you do. 

This is the best way to make an impression on your supervisor. No employer EVER wants to release those who develop quickly and make significant contributions to the company. Your improvement and effectiveness are the keys to keeping your job.

Never yawn in front of others.

If you’re fatigued, go to the restroom and freshen up. Bosses and supervisors detest employees who yawn in front of them or at meetings because they see it as a sign of boredom and disrespect.

Have a biblical view of work.

Having the ability to work and generate wealth is a gift from God. And, as a representative and ambassador of God, you must pursue excellence at work to display His glory. As such, work that isn’t illegal or immoral is an act of worship and service unto the Lord. So, whatever you do, you do it as if you’re doing it unto the Lord. Have that attitude toward work, and be grateful to God, who has allowed you to generate income and make positive contributions.