What to Do When You're New

SEVEN

ASKING QUESTIONS

In this chapter we will explore why, when we’re new, we are sometimes reluctant to ask questions, and we’ll learn how we can improve our ability to:

• Be more strategic and proactive in asking questions.

• Approach others and ask questions with less anxiety.

• Ask questions in ways that create or maintain a positive impression.

We all know that asking questions is often the only way we can receive the help, information, or advice we need to get up to speed quickly and become a successful newcomer. When we’re new, we need others to help us filter the fire hose of new information we’re receiving. We need feedback on how we’re doing and advice on what really matters. When we become leaders, most of what we achieve is through ...