TCEP 041: Strategies for Starting A New Civil Engineering Job on the Right Foot

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In episode 041 of The Civil Engineering Podcast, I interview Daniel Hayes, PE about how to start out a new civil engineering job on the right foot.

Here are some of the points Daniel reviewed in relation to starting a new civil engineering job:

• Resigning correctly and communicating effectively with your new company during the process.
• The importance to setting goals for yourself.
• The importance of the first hour, first day, and first week of a new civil engineering job.
• How to ask the right questions.

Quotes to think about:

 Here are some key points discussed in this episode in relation to starting a new civil engineering job:

• Always give proper notice when you plan to resign from your current job.
• Work with your current employer to transition effectively, if they are inclined to provide you with someone to transition too.
• Communicate with your new company as you really do not have a new civil engineering job until the day you walk in the door at that new job.
• The first 90 days are very important for your success at any new firm. Always have a plan ready when you start working at a new company, even if your future employer has a plan for you. They may or may not be interested in your plan, but at least they will say that you have the foresight.
• Making a plan is not as important as getting your brain connected to the new job, and getting yourself started.
• The first hour at your new company is really your first impression, so you absolutely have to be on time for work.
• Dress appropriately, because this is how people will instantly judge you.
• Always put your cell phone away on your first day in a new job.
• Be polite and sociable and save the introvert for another time.
• Linger a bit and stay a little bit longer on your first day, in order to create opportunities to connect with people, and to show them that you are dedicated right from the beginning.
• Get to know and make friends with the support staff. Respect them as they will be critical to your success.
• You need to relax during your first week at the job. You are not going to solve the company’s problems in the first week. Spend more time listening and less time talking. No one is expecting you to be fully productive during the first week of a new civil engineering job.  Just focus on getting better at what you do every day.
• Do not be afraid to ask questions. Start to understand the operations, and standards of the company, you are working for.

More details on effectively starting a new civil engineering job in this episode…

About Daniel Hayes:

Daniel Hayes, PE is a registered professional engineer with over 14 years of experience in both the consulting and construction sector. He has experience in the project management and the development of construction plans, specifications and cost estimates for military, residential and commercial land development projects in numerous jurisdictions. Hayes has professional registration in Maryland, Texas (inactive), Virginia and West Virginia.  He has been a long time member of The Engineering Mastermind.

Sources/References:

Daniel Hayes’s LinkedIn

This episode is brought to you by PPI, the leader of civil engineering FE or PE exam preparations. Use promo code CIVIL for 20% discount at PPI2Pass.com/coach.

Books mentioned in this episode:

 The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter, Updated and Expanded

The Pledge: Your Master Plan for an Abundant Life (Agora Series)

Please leave your comments or questions in the section below on effectively starting a new civil engineering job.

To your success,

Anthony Fasano, PE, LEED AP
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success