So you've got a new job or promotion. Congratulations! Of course you set high standards for yourself and you want to be successful, so how are you going to demonstrate what a good choice you are for the position?

A great way to show your value is to identify what the expectations and priorities are for both your boss and key customers, internal as well as external. If you want to get up to speed quickly, ask these key people open-ended questions that get at their standards and style.

Once you have this information, you can adapt your job performance to meet or exceed those expectations. Continuing to ask open-ended questions will give you feedback on your progress along the way. Even if you are already established in your position, asking open-ended questions can remind others of your interest in helping them and the organization succeed.

Consider these questions, as well as your own:

		At the first opportunity, ask your new boss: "What would you like to see me achieve in the first six months?" "What's the best way to communicate with you?" "How can I make your job easier?"
		Show that you are open to feedback: "What feedback do you have for me so far?" "What improvements would you suggest for me?" "How can I serve you better?"
		Questions for colleagues and customers: "What's most important to you?" "What ideas do you have about this issue?" "How can I help you?"

		Contact Us:
		Janie Trainor: jtrainor@novaworks.org
		Marsha Austin: maustin@novaworks.org
		www.pepskills.org