Level: Intermediate
Objective: To have students describe and discuss their first day at work
Словарный запас: Fit in, whisper, stare, jitters, upbeat, play it safe, get to know, show up (2 meanings), come across, spiel, newbie, bite the bullet, suck up, rush, negate, good will
“How to fit in on your first day of work. Everyone is whispering and staring at you, or at least it feels that way. Here are a few quick tricks for dealing with those first day at the office jitters.
You will need: a new job, some self-confidence and an upbeat attitude.
Step 1 – Choose your first day outfit carefully. Your clothes are a huge part of the image you project, so play it safe. At least until people get to know you.
Step 2 – Show up on time but not too early. You want to appear conscientious and responsible but you don’t want to show up your new colleagues.
Step 3 – Be prepared to answers about who you are, where you’re from and what you’re doing there. Rehearse your spiel ahead of time in order to come across as confident but not arrogant.
Be respectful to one and all. Not only is it good manners, but you still don’t know who’s who or who’s about to be promoted.
Step 4 – Do more listening that talking. The only thing people enjoy more than interrogating the newbie is talking about themselves.
Impress people by remembering their names. Make a quick mental association during introductions. For example, if you meet a woman named Sandy, picture a lovely beach.
Step 5 – Introduce yourself to others. It’s one of the easiest ways to come across as friendly and competent.
Step 6 – Be prepared to either bite the bullet and ask someone to have lunch with you, or bring a book or work to occupy yourself if you plan to sit and eat alone.
Step 7 – Offer to help. It immediately shows bosses and subordinates alike that you are a team player.
Step 8 – Don’t suck up. Bosses can see right through it and it won’t win you any points with your new colleagues.
Step 9 – Don’t rush out the door at 5 o’clock, or you’ll negate any good will you established during the day.
Did you know, according to a recent poll, 84% of Americans are not in their dream job“
Discussion questions:
- Did you do or say anything silly on your first day at work?
- Do you feel that you fitted in?
- Did you suck up to the boss?
- How did you come across?
- What is the hierarchy of your company?
- Is it easy to get promoted?
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