Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission
After starting a new job, you might feel like you need to impress your new colleagues and proceed to share (or rather, overshare) everything about yourself, like your accomplishments and latest epic adventure. But according to one career expert, unleashing your life story right off the bat is actually the last thing you should do at a new gig.
“To start gaining respect of colleagues and superiors on the first day, make it about them, not about you.” —Jason Sackett, executive coach and author
Instead of prattling on about your (ridiculously cute) dog and career achievements, ask your new coworkers about themselves first: “To start gaining respect of colleagues and superiors on the first day, make it about them, not about you,” Jason Sackett, an executive coach and contributing author to Compassion@Work: Creating Workplaces that Engage the Human Spirit, told Glassdoor.
Because you’re a new face in their space, talking about yourself tends to result only in making people feel nervous or annoyed. That’s why Sackett said your best bet to start off strong in your new workspace is to become a great listener. “Get curious and inquire about the roles, talents, and achievements of your colleagues to establish a persona as a listener, learner, and collaborator,” he said.
By shifting your focus and making it clear you’re there to learn from others—not just to talk about yourself—you’re more likely to put everyone at ease and develop a trusting relationship with people in the office. And don’t worry: You’ll be showing your new work BFFs pictures of your cuddly pup soon enough.
Here’s Michelle Obama’s one piece of advice to aspiring #bossbabe leaders. And if you’re not happy in your career, this path could change that.
Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter
Get all the latest in wellness, trends, food, fitness, beauty, and more delivered right to your inbox.
Got it, you've been added to our email list.