The Better Workday Podcast

Episode 19 | Essential Skills for New Employees

Written by Niamh Moynihan | Jul 30, 2024 6:00:00 AM

Episode Summary

Whether stepping into your first job after college or starting fresh at a new company, this episode of The Better Workday Podcast is packed with actionable tips designed to make your transition into the workplace smoother and more successful.

Even if you’re not a graduate, this episode offers a great opportunity to reset and revisit the basics for a better workday.

Key Takeaways

Plan Your Week

  • Even simple forward planning can make a huge difference in managing your workload and expectations.
  • Map out your weekdays, even in broad strokes (e.g., morning vs. afternoon tasks).
  • If your role is highly responsive, plan for 2–3 days at a time.
  • Schedule this planning time for Wednesday afternoons for the following week to stay ahead.
  • Don’t forget to schedule your lunch break! Start the habit early and keep it throughout your career.

Pick Your Priority

  • Focus on completing one key task each day. Use the mantra: “If I do nothing else today, I will…
  • Communicate your priority to your manager or team to ensure alignment.
  • Focusing on finishing tasks, even small ones, builds momentum and helps manage energy in a busy work environment.

Get to Know Your Key People

  • Build relationships with the 5–7 people you work with most closely.
  • Understand their communication preferences, priorities, and how they can help—or hinder—your progress.
  • Scheduling short “getting to know you” meetings early on can create a strong foundation for collaboration and trust.

Practical Tips from the Episode:

  • Set Reminders: If you’re not used to planning your week, start small by setting a 10-minute reminder on Monday mornings.
  • Communicate Your Priority: A quick message to your manager about your top focus for the day can improve clarity and reduce misunderstandings.
  • Build Connections: Don’t hesitate to reach out to key colleagues, even if you’re new. Most people are happy to help you succeed—it benefits them too!

If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a colleague or friend who might benefit from it. Until next time, stay well and have a better workday.

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