Connie

Congratulations! You got hired. Give yourself a big pat on the back, but don’t get too comfortable quite yet. You have a whole lot of learning to do these next few weeks!

Not only will you be asked to take on unfamiliar tasks and practice systems and protocols different from what you're used to, but also you are entering a foreign, and probably complex, new social network.

During your transition from new hire to dependable coworker, use these rules to navigate through the complicated workings of your new office.

DO – Be friendly to everyone. Make small talk about sports, popular TV shows and current events.

DON’T – Force yourself into other people’s personal conversations. Being perceived as invasive is not a way to make friends.

DO – Ask your new co-workers for recommendations on good restaurants and coffee places nearby.

DON’T – Constantly reference your former workplace routines or how you used things. People might start to wonder why you don’t go back and work at your old job.

DO – Give your new colleagues time to warm up to you gradually.

DON’T - Immediately ask people to join your online networks (LinkedIn, Facebook, etc). Wait until you know people better and have formed a personal relationship.