Tips@work is a monthly feature of job-related topics that include tips from men and women working in different fields who share what they've learned along the way. THIS MONTHS TOPIC: > Achieving a work-life balanace PREVIOUS TOPICS COVERED: > Transitioning effectively from one job to another > E-mail etiquette > Managing first days on a new job > Tapping into the hidden job market > Challenging Interview Questions > Impress in interviews > Question Time > Reducing job interview anxiety > Re-entering the workforce > Effective cover letters

On the Job is a weekly column profiling various employment options in Nova Scotia.

THIS WEEKS FEATURED CAREER:
> PARAMEDICS

PREVIOUSLY FEATURED CAREERS:
> ACCOUNTANTS
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> ARTISTS
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> WEB DESIGNERS AND DEVELOPERS

For more career options, check out Nova Scotia Education Department Career Options website.

The first few days on a new job can be exhilarating and exhausting. Don't add to these emotions by trying to introduce change right away. Instead, as recommended by some of the contributors below, study your new environment and learn from others. Read on for more tips on everything from dressing appropriately to letting your enthusiasm and personality come through.

• When we have a new employee come into our facility we match them with a mentor for about a week until the employee becomes adjusted to how the business operates. If your employer doesn't have a mentor system, find out who the go-to person is in the organization and develop a relationship with that person. It will help make things go smoothly.
  Kelvin Campbell
  Owner/Operator
  Chapman Autobody Ltd.

• A good strategy for the first few days (or weeks or months!) is to blend. Don't make waves. Do not regale your new co-workers with stories of your wild weekend exploits or decorate your work space with your extensive collection of, well, anything! Use your keen powers of observation to see how things and people work! By keeping a sharp eye and sharper ear, the office politics and culture will become clear, which will make going to work each day that much better!
  Lynn Matheson
  Council Assistant
  Halifax Regional Municipality

• Show interest and passion. It's as simple as that. Any employer can tell if a new staff member is enthusiastic and interested. If they are, they'll have a good long career with the company. If they aren't, it will show very quickly.
  Mark Martin
  Owner
  M Home

• Don't be afraid to insert some personality into your first few days of work. It can be nerve-wracking in a new environment, but being open about your work style and personality will let your co-workers know who you are as a person and a professional. They'll see that you're approachable and friendly, which will help build working relationships. It's about getting off to a positive start - and laying the foundation for a positive future.
  Lesley Mulcahy
  Communications Coordinator
  Canadian Cancer Society - Nova Scotia Division

• First impressions DO count and one of the first signals you send to fellow co-workers and management is how you present yourself in your appearance. Before starting your first day, be sure you are completely aware of the dress code and dress appropriately for the position. Whether it is an office or a construction site, always be neat. Also, be punctual. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early.
  Sherry Kirwin
  General Manager, Maritime Region
  Pattison Outdoor Advertising

• The start of a new job is both an exciting and an anxious time. Remember you are entering a new environment that has a history and culture. Do not try and impress your opinions on others in the early days. Listen and learn and follow the lead of your co-workers and managers. There will be time for you to be heard and shine once you establish yourself.
  Greg Strange, CA
  Partner
  Levy Casey Carter MacLean
  Chartered Accountants

So, the message seems to be, take the time to adjust to your new environment and its culture. For many, computers play a big part in their day-to-day work. In next month's column we'll key into the subject of e-mail etiquette. As always, our tips will come from women and men working in different fields who are willing to share what they've learned along the way.