“Relationship-building should be your number one priority” when you first start a job, says Lori Scherwin, founder of career firm Strategize That. “Perception shapes reality and your first few days — if not hours — on a job can inform your success.”
“Listen and learn more than you act and advise. Specifically, conduct a ‘listening tour’ in your first few weeks where you can observe and ask before you jump in and unintentionally cross any lines,” Scherwin suggests. “Even if you were brought in to inspire change, you’ll need buy-in. Gain trust and advocates first and use new insight to inform your plan.”