Staffing Generalist Kelsey Maxwell’s Top Three Tips for a Successful First Week on the Job

Sep 1, 2017

Kelsey Maxwell

For several years now, Kelsey Maxwell has been helping people find the perfect job. As Friday Services’s newest Staffing Generalist, she has quickly honed her talent for matching candidates’ skillsets with the needs of client companies. Moving to Western North Carolina from Greensboro at the end of last May, Kelsey primarily fulfills orders in clerical industries, although sometimes she works with industrial positions as well.

In the past, we’ve shared with you tips on how to prepare for a job interview, but what about preparing for the job itself? Starting a new job always has its challenges, but there are certain steps you can take to make the transition as seamless as possible.

Because Kelsey is one of our newest hires at Friday Services, we thought it would be fun to ask her for some tips for people to ensure their first week at work is a success. Whether it’s a temporary, full-time, or temp-to-hire position, once a match is made, it’s important for the new employee to make a good first impression and begin learning what is expected of you.

1. Introduce Yourself

It may be intimidating to walk into work on the first day and only know the name of one or two people. “Take the initiative to actually meet people and to say hello in the elevator or in the break room,” says Kelsey. Be approachable. Get to know your managers, members of the IT department, and people who work around you. “It’s really important because you want people to feel comfortable coming to you, and you want to feel comfortable going to them with questions.” People will definitely forgive you if you slip on a name or two the first week, so don’t worry. Keep a list of coworkers’ names if you need a little help remembering.

2. Research the Company

Let’s say you were hired for a data entry position. With so many kinds of data, it’s anyone’s guess what kind of data you’ll be doing. Learn about the company first to understand what they deliver and what kinds of numbers you’ll be working with. “Understand the company dynamic,” says Kelsey. “The Recruiter can help with that.”

Ask questions during the hiring process if you aren’t sure what your day-to-day duties entail. Use the time during your interview or working interview to gain clarity on what mission of the company. The internet can also be a great resource—Google the company and read their website copy to see how they describe their work.

3. Befriend a Long-Time Worker

It’s easy to make small mistakes during your first couple of days in a new work environment. Fortunately, you can always ask for help or clarity on a task. Become friends with someone who has worked at the company for a while. They can show you the ropes. “This can be your go-to person,” says Kelsey. “Someone you can learn from.”

Navigating the Workforce

Once you’re in a position through Friday Services, we continue to support you. As a graduate of Western Carolina University, with a degree in Entrepreneurship, Kelsey is well equipped to help people find the next chapter in their careers. In April, Kelsey earned her American Staffing Association Certified Staffing Professional credentials. This is a certification required by all staffing generalists at Friday Services. She learned all about employment law, including time cards, recording keeping, and the Family and Medical Leave Act, among other topics.

“In general, it gives me a better understanding of the industry,” says Kelsey. “Because I studied all that information, I think it’s made me a better recruiter for my clients, candidates, and employees.” If you have any questions while at your new job, we’re happy to help!

Haven’t Found the Perfect Job Yet?

We can help! Check out our open positions. Apply online or call us today! Our team will assist in making sure you have a successful first week, and second, and third, and fourth… Friday Services has three locations to better serve you: Asheville/Arden, Hendersonville, and Morganton.

Employees

If you see a lot of potential in yourself – so do we! Start your job search and learn about the opportunities and benefits offered.

Employers

Friday Services is independent and locally owned. We offer Western North Carolina employers strategic flexibility with greater attention to detail.