For the employee, it's a time of learning and adjustment, as they get to know their new surroundings, coworkers, and responsibilities. At the same time, the employer is also evaluating the new employee, trying to determine if they are a good fit for the company and the role.
During the first six seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, and months on the job, both the employee and the employer are taking each other's measure, forming impressions, and making decisions. Here's a closer look at what each party is likely thinking and feeling during this critical transition period. We call it Promana's Rule of Six
The first six seconds:
For the employee, the first few seconds on the job are an opportunity to make a good first impression. They are likely thinking about their body language and demeanor, trying to appear confident and approachable. They may be feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness, eager to get started but unsure of what to expect. They may also be evaluating their surroundings and the people they encounter, trying to get a sense of the company culture and the people they will be working with.
For the employer, the first few seconds of a new employee's tenure are an opportunity to observe and evaluate. They are likely looking at the employee's body language and demeanor, trying to get a sense of their personality and fit within the company culture. They may be feeling a mix of anticipation and skepticism, hoping that the new hire will be a good addition to the team but also aware that first impressions can be deceiving. They may also be evaluating the employee's interactions with their surroundings and coworkers, trying to get a sense of how well they are adapting to their new environment.
The first six minutes:
For the employee, the first few minutes of the job are typically spent getting settled in and introduced to their coworkers. They are likely listening and asking questions, trying to learn as much as they can about the company and their role. They may be feeling overwhelmed by the amount of information, but also excited by the possibilities of their new job. They may also be evaluating their surroundings and the people they encounter, trying to get a sense of the company culture and the people they will be working with.
For the employer, the first few minutes of a new employee's tenure are an opportunity to provide initial training and guidance. They are likely going over the basics of the company and the role, answering questions, and introducing the employee to their coworkers. They may be feeling a sense of responsibility and obligation, as they want to make sure the new hire gets off to a good start. They may also be evaluating the employee's interactions with their surroundings and coworkers, trying to get a sense of how well they are adapting to their new environment.
The first six hours:
For the employee, the first few hours of the job are an opportunity to start getting a feel for the company culture and their place within it. They are likely observing how people work and interact with each other, and trying to get a sense of the company's values and expectations. They may be feeling a mix of curiosity and confusion, as they try to make sense of their new environment. They may also be evaluating their surroundings and the people they encounter, trying to get a sense of the company culture and the people they will be working with.
For the employer, the first few hours of a new employee's tenure are a time to provide more detailed training and support. They are likely going over the specific tasks and responsibilities of the role, and providing the employee with the tools and resources they need to succeed. They may be feeling a sense of impatience and uncertainty, as they want the new hire to hit the ground running but also recognize that learning takes time. They may also be evaluating the employee's progress and abilities, trying to determine if they are a good fit for the role and the company.
The first six days:
For the employee, the first week of the job is typically a blur of new information and new people. They are likely trying to get to know their coworkers and learn their way around the office, and may be feeling overwhelmed by the amount of information and the number of new faces. They may also be feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety, as they try to make a good impression and prove themselves in their new role. They may also be evaluating their surroundings and the people they encounter, trying to get a sense of the company culture and the people they will be working with.
For the employer, the first week of a new employee's tenure is a time to provide ongoing support and guidance. They are likely checking in with the employee regularly, answering questions, and providing feedback on their progress. They may also be observing the employee's interactions with their coworkers, trying to get a sense of how well they are fitting in and adapting to the company culture. They may be feeling a mix of optimism and caution, as they want the new hire to succeed but also recognize that it takes time to get to know someone.
The first six weeks:
During the first six weeks, both the employee and the employer are settling into a routine and starting to get a sense of each other's strengths and weaknesses. For the employee, this is a time to start thinking about their long-term goals within the company and how they can excel in their role. They may be reviewing their job description and performance expectations, and discussing their progress and goals with their supervisor. They may also be evaluating their surroundings and the people they encounter, trying to get a sense of the company culture and the people they will be working with.
For the employer, the first six weeks of a new employee's tenure is a time to evaluate their performance and provide feedback. They are likely conducting regular check-ins and evaluations, and providing the employee with constructive criticism and guidance on how to improve. They may also be considering the employee's potential for growth and advancement within the company, and determining whether they are a good fit for the long term. They may be feeling a mix of satisfaction and concern, as they see the employee making progress but also recognize that there may be challenges and obstacles along the way.
The first six months:
During the first six months, both the employee and the employer are starting to get a more complete picture of each other's abilities and potential. For the employee, this is typically when they will have their first performance evaluation, and they may be feeling a mix of pride and anxiety as they reflect on their achievements and areas for improvement. They may be setting new goals and working with their supervisor to create a plan for success. They may also be evaluating their surroundings and the people they encounter, trying to get a sense of the company culture and the people they will be working with.
For the employer, the first six months of a new employee's tenure is a time to evaluate their overall performance and potential. They are likely conducting a thorough performance evaluation, taking into account the employee's skills, knowledge, and attitudes, and providing them with specific feedback and guidance on how to improve. They may also be considering the employee's fit within the company and their potential for growth and advancement, and making decisions about their future with the company. They may be feeling a mix of optimism and uncertainty, as they see the employee making progress but also recognize that there may be challenges and obstacles ahead.
It's mutual
In conclusion, the first six seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, and months on a new job are all important in their own ways. For both the employee and the employer, it's a time of observation, evaluation, and adaptation, as they try to determine if they are a good fit for each other. By being mindful of each of these periods and taking steps to make the most of them, both parties can set themselves up for success and lay the groundwork for a long and fulfilling working relationship.
For the employee, this means being open and receptive to new experiences and feedback, and being proactive in seeking out opportunities to learn and grow. It also means being honest and transparent with the employer, communicating openly and honestly about their goals, challenges, and expectations.
For the employer, this means being supportive and nurturing of the new employee, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed, and offering regular feedback and guidance. It also means being open and fair in the evaluation process, providing the employee with clear and constructive feedback and giving them the opportunity to improve and grow.
Ultimately, the success of the employee-employer relationship depends on both parties working together and supporting each other. By building trust and respect, and fostering a positive and collaborative working environment, both parties can thrive and achieve their goals.