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When you begin a new job, there is a wealth of new knowledge to acquire, from where the best lunch spots are to where they keep the post-it notes. However, one of the most significant things one has to tackle when starting at a new job is that of learning how to fit into the company culture. Hopefully, while researching the company you have joined, and during the interview process, you were able to glean a lot about it, but there are still things you can do to ensure an easier time of settling into the new place.
Introduce yourself to everyone
Make a concerted effort to introduce yourself to absolutely everyone at the company. Depending on the size of the organisation you’ve joined, this may take a few days, possibly weeks, but be sure to get round to everyone. This will help you learn who does what and make you appear approachable and friendly to others in the company.
Remember names
An obvious one, but you would be surprised just how easy it is to forget names as soon as you hear them when faced with the somewhat daunting task of meeting entire teams at once. Find a method that works for you. Forbes has a few effective suggestions.
Listen to people
Introducing yourself is one thing and telling people a little about yourself is certainly a great ice-breaker, however, what is more important is to listen to others and learn about the culture from the things they say. People will almost inevitably broach the subject of ‘how things are here’ as a matter of conversation, so stay tuned in and listen to what they talk about.
Figure out what you can bring to the table
You may already have this clear in your head from the interview, but if not, consider what you can bring to the company and where you will fit into the culture there. You won’t feel so lost if you know where you stand.
Adapting to company culture is a step that every new employee has to go through. Depending on what you have been accustomed to, it can be a breeze or it can take a bit of getting used to. Remember that is it down to you to find your place and fit in, not down to others to position you. A little extra effort goes a long way in expediting your integration into your new company.