Being the new person in the office is exciting, but it also presents a unique set of challenges. You face a steep learning curve at the same time you most want to fit in and to prove yourself as a legal support professional.
Here are several best practices to craft a great first impression:
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Spend Time Listening
During your first days on the job, listening and learning are essential. Take the time to focus on gathering and absorbing as much information as possible. Don’t be afraid to ask questions: Orientation and onboarding are the best time to learn more.
When you meet new staff members, introduce yourself, then ask a polite question like “What do you do here?” or “Why do you love working here?” Listen carefully to their answers. You’ll get a reputation as a great conversationalist, and you’ll learn information that will help you build and maintain relationships.
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Keep an Open Mind
Whether this is your first job in the legal support field or you’re an established professional, you will have picked up ideas about how to do the job that might differ from how your new team actually accomplishes its daily tasks. Enter your new job with a spirit of adventure and discovery to see how this team meets its goals.
Arriving with an open mind and positive attitude communicates the job and the team matter to you, and that you’re there to help – two qualities your co-workers will appreciate.
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Take the Initiative
Your first assignments are likely to be small ones in order to let you become comfortable with the topics and pace of work. Finish these as far before their deadlines as you can, and don’t hesitate to ask for more work when you turn them in. You’ll communicate that you’re ready and able to take on more challenging tasks and projects.
Grow Your Career Today!
At Kent Legal, our recruiters help connect legal support professionals to some of the best law firms and legal departments in the greater Toronto area, so you can focus on thriving in your new role. Contact us today to learn more.