A new job always presents an exciting opportunity. It often means a better salary, working conditions and lifestyle. Sometimes, though, it's best to start a new job cautiously. It can be filled with anxiety and confusion and become one of the most stressful events in a person's life. It need not be.

If you simply take time to understand your environment, your job, and the people you will be working with, you should enjoy a smooth transition. The following guidelines will help you move successfully into your new position, make you look good on the job and ensure that your first few weeks are a pleasant "honeymoon" for you and your new employer.

Each organization plays a different version of the same game, so don't panic when even simple things seem difficult. Set out to know your work environment and the position that has now become yours. Not only should you become familiar with the facilities, tools and means available to you, you should understand what your supervisor, co-workers and subordinates expect of you.

Begin orienting yourself to your new surroundings. Use your first few weeks to get used to the feel of your new job, and the people you will be working with.

It's important to move carefully and slowly during this honeymoon time. Ask questions and listen more. Review your predecessor's records. Observe, study and learn how things are done and by whom, and find out what specific support is available to you.

As appropriate as it may seem resist the temptation to reject your predecessor's plans and forge ahead with your own ideas. Instead, make your agenda appear like her unfinished business. The purpose is to understand clearly and completely what you are dealing with so that any change brought about by you will be most effective and perceived as fair.

During this initial time, you should make certain to observe all company rules to the letter, and follow proper business etiquette. For example, don't drink alcohol during the day, no matter what colleagues do. Be conservative and moderate in everything except your enthusiasm for your work and support of others. If you have to vent some of your energy and enthusiasm in getting started, allow yourself to be aggressive with your production, your work ethic, and the goals you set for yourself.

When you have your first meeting with the new boss, ask her to clearly define her expectations, your specific responsibilities and the limits of your authority. Seek to develop rapport early on, and ask for her continued feedback and constructive criticism so that you can learn to be effective. Make a special effort to understand her needs and work doubly hard to make sure you meet them.

Many people have trouble saying "no" to special projects or requests that they may not be able to complete, make sure you do not accept them. Whatever you say you will do, regardless of how insignificant it may seem, you must do so that you are not viewed as one who does not keep your word. If you say you will be somewhere at 7:30 AM, be there ten minutes early to make sure. If you agree to look over a proposal, or return someone's phone call, or turn off the lights when you're done, you should make a written note to yourself and keep it viable until you've fulfilled your commitment.

It is a good idea to make certain your boss knows whether you welcome specific advancement opportunities. Let her know if you are open to learning specific skills, and tell her whether you are willing to tackle additional responsibility in the areas that will help you advance. You should also work with your new boss to establish standards of performance, which will prepare you for your next advancement. After all, this new job could be a stepping stone to another promotion.

It will be to your advantage to focus on the "people side" of the business for the first week or two. Set out to meet people on a warm, personal level.

As the "new kid on the block," employees around the office will be watching you closely. Be particularly mindful of your attitude and behavior, and smile whenever you greet someone. You are the one exploring new territory.

Your peers will want to learn from and adjust to your style of management, so you should try to be consistent in everything you do. Because you have the potential to create problems for them and reduce their control of their own environment, they may note your mistakes more readily than your successes. Be patient. If you work diligently, professionally and courteously, your co-workers will come forward with respect, warmth and acceptance.

Start as a team player by working to develop rapport and supportive relationships with your co-workers and subordinates. Let them know you are there to support their success, and make an effort to praise them at every opportunity. You can show a positive interest learning about their history, hobbies and outlook. If you have relocated, seek your new colleagues' advice in finding resources and amenities. This shows people that you value their input. And once again, try to remember to be consistent in your behavior and style to allow others to grow accustomed to your personality.

The key principal to a successful job honeymoon is to be conservative in your behavior and your attitudes, and focus on understanding who and what you are dealing with before the honeymoon is over. Your goal should be to take full advantage of this initial orientation period so that when you begin your job, you can move ahead with maximum effectiveness.

The previous information is written and copyrighted by Frederick C. Hornberger, Jr., president of Hornberger Management Company, a national board and executive search firm specializing in the construction industry. This information is provided for personal use only. It may not be copied, printed or distributed to anyone other than you the reader, for any reason without permission from the author. Contact the author at address One Commerce Center, #747, Wilmington, Delaware 19801, phone 302-573-2541, email [email protected], or through the company web site at www.hmc.com.