The new kid in school: Make the right steps to fit in at the office

Success! You’ve got a new job. Unfortunately, the real interview process has only just begun. Over the first few weeks, social interactions with your new colleagues will determine just how well you fit in.

“I think the cultural fit really sets the tone for whether the person is going to work out, but also how positive an experience the person will have on the job,” says Emily Westerman, associate director of the Office of Career Management at NYU School of Continuing and Professional Studies.

One of the first things she usually coaches clients on, she says, is the importance of determining the cultural norms in an office. Do people go out for lunch together, for example?

In that regard, it’s crucial to spend time observing. “Take a step back,” she says. “You want to make sure you don’t do things that are going to alienate people.”

Inviting the gang down to the pub for happy hour on the first day may not be a great idea then. But tagging along if it’s something they’re already planning is crucial, even if you don’t want to. Again, let the norms of the office be your guide.

“If people don’t understand why you’re not participating, in some cultures that could sabotage you.”

Going with the flow seems easy, but it also has to be coupled with a professional and personable openness. Try this crazy move: Introduce yourself to everyone right away.

But, says Westerman, “You need to be careful to make sure you respect the personal and professional boundaries.” What those are will vary depending on the industry you’re in, and the established norms. Age is a key component as well.

“When your younger, it’s more natural for your work place to be your social network. When you’re older and when you get to a management role, that’s when you need to be more careful of boundaries.”

Ultimately, like forming any type of relationship, it should be a natural progression. Observe and react, and let the established cues be your guide.

LUKE O'NEIL