Jump Starting Your Career: Six People You Need to Know at Work

When you just start a new job, you won't always know what kind of workplace it is. Some are extremely friendly where everyone wants you to succeed and help you in anyway they can. Some are less desirable and are riddled with corporate politics. Most of them are somewhere in between. Regardless of what type of business it is, there are going to be some people that you should get to know as soon as possible so that you'll be able to get your work done in an effective manner, as well as make critical networking contacts for future opportunities.

Your boss is a great place to start. He or she is the first person you should get to know. Don't make stupid mistakes out of ignorance, if you don't know something, just ask! Casual conversation and asking questions will help you get on your supervisor's good side. This will give you a valuable insight into how he/she works, and if you're on your boss's good side, that only means positive things for your career. Don't make yourself sound incompetent, but ask questions that require a bit of thought and response. This will re-assure him/her in his/her role, and make him/her feel good about their job.

You'll also want to get to know your bosses boss. You definitely want to know some people further up on the corporate ladder. This way when a new position in corporate or up the food chain comes open somewhere, they'll think about you rather than one of your coworkers for the position. Just make your name known to them. Casually introduce yourself and tell them that you think it's a pleasure to be part of the organization. Greet them in the hallways, and maybe ask them a question on occasion, but be sure not to step on your bosses toes!

Don't just try to get to know the people above you in the business world. You'll also want to know some of the service-related people. The janitor is a big one, this is the person that keeps your area clean. Chances are the janitor knows how things work around the office and hears a lot of office gossip. Usually the janitor can give you great insight about the corporate environment and how things work around the office.

You definitely want to get to know the secretaries, specifically your boss's secretary, and your boss's boss's secretary. These people know what's going on at all times, and are the gatekeeper to some more important people. Take a few minutes every now and then to see how the administrative assistants/secretaries are doing. Be friendly, courteous, and help them if they ever need you to do something. A lot of things also pass through secretaries' desks. They almost always know what's going on.

Finally, you'll want to know the person with the most seniority in the position that you work. They have a ton of experience and you'll want to make use of it. They know about the culture of work and will be a very valuable resource to you.