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[/custom_frame_center] You’re starting a new job. You are motivated, excited and ready to hit the ground running. Take a few tips from some popular superheroes to make your first day, week and month a success:
Observe
Oracle is a genius, martial arts expert and hacking specialist. She is also a master detective and the information superhighway for other superheroes. She took her job as a dependable information source after she was hurt in her role as Batgirl, so it’s safe to say it took time for her to adjust to sitting behind a desk. Start your new gig by observing and gathering information. This is not the time to play the comparison game with your previous job or employer. Be a sponge.
Don’t try to change the world (your new work environment) the first week
Batman is known being the best – at a lot of things. He has files full of information about pretty much everyone in Gotham and has the intellect to know when and how to use that information. When you start a new job, expectations may be high. Pace yourself and give yourself time to learn. Don’t give away too much too early: a superhero is not built in a day.
Don’t get discouraged
Wolverine has a mutant healing factor. His ability to accelerate healing makes him resistant to diseases and toxins. Steel yourself against early disappointments and keep your expectations manageable. Y ou are your o wn best defense and healer, so allow some time to learn your new job and coworkers. And be glad you don’t have razor-sharp claws.
Don’t present unrealistic demands
You are not the Hulk. You do not possess superhuman strength, stamina, durability and endurance. Neither do your coworkers. Plus, green doesn’t look good on everyone. Keep your expectations reasonable. ( Think expectancy vs. expectation). Y our coworkers are adjusting to you, just as you are adjusting to them. Time and good relationships are developed – not powered through.
Find some allies
Robin is the dependable sidekick. Whether it’s facing the Joker or providing some much-needed levity to his boss, Robin is a team player. Start making some allies in your new work setting. Go out to lunch or for drinks; see what your coworkers like to do for fun. If your company hosts events, make sure you participate. When you are in staff meetings, be attentive and positive. This sets a good stage for collaboration.
Don’t bluff that you know more than you do
It won’t take Spider-Man’s “spider-sense” for your coworkers to realize if you aren’t shooting straight. Be genuine from the start. You were hired for the right reasons. Be yourself and be honest about your abilities and your openness to learn.
Don’t stop learning
Unless you have one of the rings of the Green Lantern Corps, you’re going to need continuing education. Just like the rings’ abilities, the full extent of your abilities is undefined. Stay on top of current events pertaining to your field, write a white paper and attend pertinent seminars.
Don’t immediately scope out the dating scene
Adjusting to a new job is adjustment enough. Immediately dating a coworker sends all kinds of signals you may not want to send. (Inter-office romances may be forbidden, so check your Policy Manual or with HR). Y ou ma y feel the lure of a P oison Ivy o ver in the Marketing Department, but steer clear. That relationship may be toxic to your job.
At the end of your first six to twelve months, take a look in the mirror – a new superhero is born!
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By Melissa Baysinger
