C. Before you read the article, match the following words with their definitions.

co-worker	a time or day by which something must be done
to make an eye-contact	to express disapproval of someone or to make judgments about something
deadline	something that is done for enjoyment, especially an organized event after the end of a working day
to criticize	before a particular time, or before doing a particular thing
after-hours activity	when two people look at each other's eyes at the same time
in advance	to be careful of some thoughts or opinion, words or sounds you pronounce
to watch the things you say	one of a group of people who work together

C. Read the article and find “dos” and “don’ts” from the list on the previous page.

How can you make sure that your first few weeks in a new job will not be your last?

Let’s start with your clothes. Plan what you are going to wear in advance. Being smart tells people that you are organized and reliable. Have a good breakfast and don’t forget to work out how to get to your new workplace before you leave!

Walk into the company with a smile and make eye contact. It can be difficult to do this when you are nervous but it will make you look more approachable. Be polite and friendlyto everyone including the receptionist. Don’t forget to find out where things are, such as the water cooler and the toilets.

Introduce yourself to your new colleagues. It is useful to learn names as soon as possible. It is good to have a positive attitude, too. You need to watch the things you say and do as they will be remembered.

You don’t need to be perfect in your first few weeks – everyone has to learn. So don’t be afraid to ask questions. It is better to ask for help than to do a job wrong! Listening is also important. Use a notebook and make notes so you don’t have to keep asking the same things. Find out from your boss your responsibilities, specific projects and their deadlines.

You should watch how your colleagues behave. Every company has its own culture. It may be formal or informal. For example, you may be allowed to make personal calls or surf the net, or you may not. Ideally in the first weeks you should arrive early, and leave not earlier than the majority of your colleagues. Starting late and finishing early never makes a good impression.

While it is useful to learn about your colleagues, it is important not to get involved in office gossip as it may make people feel they cannot trust you. Stay out of office politics and avoid criticizing your boss or colleagues to other people. But take advantage of after-hours activities to get to know your co-workers. And jointhem for lunch if they invite you.

D. Read the article again and find out why…

1) it is important to be smart

2) you should be careful what to say

3) it is OK to ask questions

4) it is worth having a notebook

5) you should watch your colleagues

6) you shouldn’t arrive late and leave early

7) you shouldn’t gossip

8) it is a good idea to socialize with your colleagues