Tips for Adapting to a New Work Culture
April 11, 2022
Starting a new job can be a great emotional rollercoaster. At every step of this journey, you get to meet new people, processes, and cultures. To say the least, it’s an overwhelming yet exhilarating experience. As we begin a new role, we must learn the company's culture and work hard to adapt quickly. In this short and breezy blog, we share top tips for adjusting to company culture starting from your first day on the job.
DEFINITION
It is said that every company has a unique culture, but what exactly are we referring to? Let's define work culture before we move on. According to Indeed, we can define company culture as "… the set of behavioral and procedural norms that can be observed within a company — which includes its policies, procedures, ethics, values, employee behaviors and attitudes, goals, and code of conduct.”
Now that we have defined the term “culture”; let’s delve deeper into the tips that can help us adapt quickly to a new workplace.
POSITIVITY
It may sound trivial, but exuding positivity in your first few weeks is crucial to successfully fitting into the company culture. Smiling often, offering to help colleagues, and sharing positive feedback on any experiences at work are all ways to exude positivity. Avoid any negative talk or office gossip with your new colleagues. If a coworker insists on sharing the office gossip, acknowledge them and quickly change the subject. Be sure to avoid speaking negatively about your former employer because it might leave a bad first impression.
COFFEE
Get a little bold with your new team and ask them out for coffee or lunch. Meeting up with your new colleagues outside the office can help you break away from formalities and get to know each other in a more comfortable environment. Try to find common interests such as hobbies, pets, or sports to help break the ice. Avoid getting too personal or oversharing so as not accidentally offend your colleagues.
INQUIRE
Being inquisitive will help you adjust to the office culture quicker. Asking how to handle specific projects or what forms of communication the group prefers are great questions to show you care. The more questions you ask, the closer you are to understanding the company culture.
INVOLVEMENT
Jumping into any projects, meetings, or tasks will help you quickly acclimate to the culture. The more information you gain on the team and company, the better you understand the policies and procedures. Taking this action will also radiate confidence and eagerness to fit in.
WE CAN HELP
Analysts, an ACS Solutions Company, specializes in providing business and consulting solutions, including IT talent. We work hard to understand our client's culture to prepare our candidates for the interview process and long-term success. Our client relationship ensures we can align our candidates with our client's ethics and values. Contact us today to learn how we can help you find the best company for your career!
