Have an Open Dialogue with your Supervisor

Starting a new job is an exciting and sometimes hectic time. With training for a new role, adjusting to a new schedule and meeting new people, it can be easy for students to feel overwhelmed and miscommunicate their needs and job expectations with an employer. To avoid these mishaps, it is extremely important to open up channels of communication for support with your manager(s) when you start your new job. 

Having an open dialog about your job expectations can help both you and your manager avoid making assumptions about your role, which can cause frustrations down the road. Whether it is clarifying what the execution of a task should look like, what your workload capacity is or what you are expected to wear to work, every bit can help!

Here are some of our communication tips to get you started:

• Find time within the first few weeks to talk with your manager and make sure your priorities are aligned

• Discuss communication preferences with your manager and colleagues - can I drop by when I have questions? Do you prefer instant messages over email? Etc. 

• Set up a development plan or learning objectives to follow throughout your contract

• Book regular (weekly or monthly) check-ins with your manager throughout your contract to ensure you both stay on the same page

• Ask your manager questions like: Can you provide me with feedback about _____? How do you like to give feedback? What are your expectations of my role?

Gaining work experience over the summer is a valuable experience and you should take advantage of the opportunities that will come with your new job! Don’t be afraid to ask questions, set goals for yourself, stay open to feedback and be honest with your employer! Proper communication can ensure you maintain strong working relationships both present and future.