Starting a new hospitality job?  Congratulations!

As you know, entering any new work situation means dealing with a set of unknowns – about the work environment and pace, about the personalities of co-workers and supervisors, and about how well you will fit in.  To thrive , you must do more than merely perform your job duties well.  You need to learn how to navigate the sometimes tricky waters of a new culture.

Use this list of suggestions to fit in on the job from day one – and ensure your success:

• Observe. From the moment you walk in the door, pay attention to others – how they interact, dress, maintain their workspaces, etc.  By simply observing, you can learn a lot about how the company operates on a daily basis.  Find out who the most successful team members are and take your cues from them.
• Be flexible. Be open to changing the ways you approach tasks, communicate with others and structure your work day.  The company probably has well-established ways of getting things done and expects you to conform to their standards.
• Be courteous and respectful. One of the best ways to win over new co-workers and supervisors is by using good business etiquette.  Treat everyone with respect by being considerate of others’ workloads and meeting your commitments on time.  If you are working in close quarters or open spaces with others:  use a quiet tone when speaking; keep your cell phone off or on vibrate; keep socializing to a minimum.  Remember that everyone has work to do, including you.
• Dress for success. Your clothes influence the way your manager and co-workers perceive you.  While on the job, avoid fashions that are too trendy, revealing or casual.  Make a good impression by dressing appropriately for your position, or one notch above.
• Beware of office politics. Office politics are part of the interactive process of working together toward individual, team and company goals.  While on a short-term assignment, the best choice is to steer clear of these dynamics.  If you’re on a long-term assignment, or have accepted a direct position, however, you need to learn to cope with them.  Learn how to compliment and not criticize; disagree without being disrespectful; stay above gossip by not spreading rumors.  Establish a reputation as a hard working, positive employee who is not a part of the rumor mill, and you’ll be off to a good start.

Find a Great Fit with Penguin Staff

If you’re looking for a hospitality job or temporary assignment in the Atlanta, GA or Herndon, VA areas, we invite you meet in-person with one of Penguin’s staffing professionals.   Together, we can discuss what type of hospitality job works best for you, the environment you like, your strengths and your salary requirements.

As a leader in hospitality staffing, Penguin knows that a good fit means more than matching skills.  To find the right opportunity for you, we will carefully match your career goals, experience and strengths with the hospitality organization’s culture and the requirements of the job.

Contact Penguin today to find your next hospitality job!