Why You Should Ask Lots of Questions in Your First Month at Work

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1. 01Ask Lots of Questions in Your First Month

   Hi, everyone. When I started my first job, I was afraid to ask questions. I thought people would think I wasn't smart. That was a mistake. Today, I'd like to recommend the opposite: ask lots of questions in your first month.

2. 02Reason 1: It's Expected

   The first reason is that it's expected. Nobody thinks a new person should know everything. In fact, your first month is the easiest time to ask, because everyone knows you're new.

3. 03Reason 2: Fewer Mistakes

   The second reason is mistakes. A thirty-second question can prevent a mistake that takes hours to fix. I once redid a whole report because I didn't ask which format my manager wanted.

4. 04Reason 3: Better Relationships

   The third reason is relationships. Asking a coworker for advice starts a conversation, and most people enjoy helping. Some of my closest work friends started with a simple question.

5. 05How to Ask Well

   Of course, ask in a smart way. Try to find the answer yourself first, keep a list so you can ask several questions at once, and write down the answers so you don't ask the same thing twice.

6. 06Useful Phrases

   Here are some useful phrases: "Do you have a minute?", "Could you show me how to do this?", and "Just to check, should I send this today?" They're polite and clear.

7. 07Conclusion

   In conclusion, asking questions doesn't make you look weak. It shows you care about doing a good job. So in your first month, don't be shy. Ask! Thank you.