There are many things to consider when beginning a new job. First of all, even if you are working at a similar company and doing the same type of work as at your last job, there are bound to be many differences.

For starters, the people will be different. The relationships you may have built at your previous job are not with the people who will now be your coworkers. New relationships will have to be created, and that inevitably takes a certain amount of time and effort.

Another key difference is that no two companies do everything exactly the same. Policies and procedures will inevitably differ between organizations. Getting used to the way your new employer does things might take…well, some getting used to.

One of the best pieces of advice I can think of is to remember to be friendly and focused (or is that two pieces of advice?). Sure, it can be intimidating to jump into a new environment, especially if your coworkers are less than gregarious. But choosing to be positive and considerate will go a long way in most workplaces.

As for being focused, it’s vital. If you’re not focused, you won’t do your job well. And if that’s the case, no matter how friendly you may be, you’re not going to be very popular when other people have to pick up your slack.

The rules for doing well at a new job, then, are pretty straightforward. Start and continue with a good attitude; treat people well; learn the new way to do things ASAP; and be focused and do a good job.

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