Top 10 ‘Faux Pas’ when starting your New Job

1. Late!  Don’t be late on your first day of work.  Or your second day.  Come to think of it, NEVER be late if it is within your control.  Make it a habit to arrive at work on time, or better yet, slightly early.
   
   
2. Poor/no listening.  During formal orientation or informal conversations, be sure to work with what you were born with:  two ears and one mouth.  Pay close attention to what is being said.  Effective communication requires both speaking AND Listening skills.
   
   
3. Gossip.  Whether you’re an active participant or a passive observer, gossip is gossip.  Being involved in gossip will discount the value of your word and compromise your trustworthiness.  There is more integrity in what you don’t say or participate in.  Keep your thoughts and your attention on important matters. 
   
   
4. Negative Chatter.  Don’t vent to your new colleagues about your old job(s), employer, or co-workers.  This is a new beginning so stay centered on what matters now keeping your focus on the positive as you look ahead leaving all negative baggage behind.
   
   
5. Inappropriate Dress.  Be certain to dress in appropriate attire that is style congruent to your organization.  When in doubt, err on the side of caution.  It's always better to be too formal than too casual. 
   
   
6. Not knowing your role expectations.  Have the necessary discussion with your boss regarding what is expected of you.  The important thing to remember is that not all discussions need be formal sit-down settings.  Be certain to have an open dialogue in any situation while using appropriate discretion and timing.  Know what it is you are responsible for?  What does success look like and how is it evaluated in your job?  Understand what it is you need to do – THEN DO IT!
   
   
7. Being politically incorrect.  Office politics are not dying bread.  We must all live with it.  In truth, it is not necessary to ever be actively involved in the details of it all.  However, it is in your best interest to be aware of how to manoeuvre at work. 
   
   
8. Lacking of the big picture of business.  The business extends beyond the scope of your role in it.  How does your job relate to the big picture?  Know this! 
   
   
9. Not leaving your personal life at home.  Bringing your personal life to work makes your work life messy.  Be mindful of all personal communications where less is more productivity.  Give your work the attention if requires with focus so that you may focus on your personal needs with full, fresh attention later. 
   
   
10. Not being clear.  When faced with uncertainty, get clarity.  Approach people with confidence when asking for help and seeking clarity.  Approach people with consideration not hesitation.  Prevent acting prematurely or in the wrong by making the up-front effort if you are uncertain about anything.  Better safe than...