As any construction professional knows, the key to a successful construction project starts with a strong foundation. If the best effort isn't put in at the beginning of the project, everything built after that is at risk of falling apart. The same principle applies to careers in construction. The first week in a new job is a critical time period that can either provide a solid foundation for future success or set a course for failure.

Steps for Success: Before the First Day

For employees: The transition from one job to another is always stressful, no matter how excited and well prepared a new employee is. Some employees find it helpful to take a week off in between the last day with a previous employer and the first day with a new employer. If a week in between jobs isn’t feasible, it helps to spend the weekend preparing mentally for the transition and focusing on how to start strong.

For managers: Because job transitions are such a stressful time for employees, it is imperative that managers reach out before a new employee’s first day to touch base and remind them that the company is excited to have them joining the team. Small gestures mean a lot, such as calling to ask simple questions (like what types of office supplies they prefer or how they would like their business cards to look) or simply to offer encouragement. Candidates who feel noticed and appreciated by their new bosses are less likely to consider counteroffers and more likely to start their first weeks excited rather than stressed.

Steps for Success: Monday

For employees: After taking the time to get mentally prepared to start a new job, employees should come in on Monday morning fresh and ready to engage with the new environment and new coworkers. They should also learn as much about the company culture as possible, by reading the company’s website, company blog and any other industry publications that might give insights.

For managers: It is important to set the right tone with a new employee and the existing team. Managers should make sure that the team is aware of who is starting, what role that person will play and what role the employees will play in welcoming and onboarding the newcomer. They must also set up the new employee’s work space, making sure it is clean and well-organized and that their business cards and other supplies are ready.

Steps for Success: Midweek

For employees: Now is the time for a new employee to put the new job on social media and let people know that they have made the change. In addition, this is a good time to start engaging socially by getting lunch or grabbing coffee with one or two teammates. It’s important to start off on the right foot and establish positive working relationships.

For managers: It’s time to post announcements to the company’s social media pages and website and let the employee see how excited the team is to have them on board. Managers should also introduce the new employee to people they will be working with regularly or who might be a resource throughout the onboarding process.

Steps for Success: Friday

For employees: Throughout the week, employees should be taking notes regarding any questions or concerns that arise. At the end of the week, they should check in with the new boss. Now is the time for an employee to confirm that they are meeting expectations and performing their work as it is expected, and to clarify any issues they have come across. Every workplace does things differently, so even if an employee has held the same job before, they should be ready to adapt to the style of the new employer.

For managers: Employees should never finish their first week and feel uncertain about whether they are doing well in their new role. Managers should set aside time to make sure that the new employee feels welcomed and that their expectations are being met. They should also answer any questions or address any concerns the employee may have, and ensure that they know that their contributions are valued. A quick conversation can make a world of difference as the new employee heads home and prepares for week number two and beyond.

Success in any role requires working hard and communicating effectively every day, but the first week in a new job is a great time to establish good routines and build strong working relationships. These small steps can help ensure a positive start in a new job, and the work done by both managers and employees going forward can rest on that solid foundation.