Any advice for people starting a new job who have never worked in a corporate setting?

If you absolutely, positively cannot keep your mouth shut, rather than trying to make a suggestion, ask a question - "I was wondering why we do [x] using [y process/technology/tool]". That at least comes across less arrogant.

I wanted to highlight this. I've managed a function that had little turnover until recently. This meant a lot of our procedures were done out of habit and tradition more than because it's the best way to do things. Like, sure, at this point I know the "why" of everything we do. But I've appreciated the newer folks coming in and asking questions. They're new employees in onboarding, of course they'll have questions. When they do, it makes me pause and consider my answer. And (often) I've said, "You know, we've done it that way for years because it was easier for your predecessor. Do you have any ideas on what could be better?"

At that point, the feedback is invited.

I also agree with the larger theme of the feedback that new employees give shouldn't jump to unsolicited criticism (even if intended constructively). You gotta know the rules to change the rules. Otherwise you live in a world of unintended consequences.

/r/careerguidance Thread Parent