Flip-Flops and Microwaved Fish

Get to know your co-workers.

A fresh start at a new workplace comes with challenges, such as learning the organization’s culture, figuring out how to blend in, and navigating new relationships with co-workers who are strangers to you. Take the time to learn about the people you are working with and the way they like to do things.

Typically, businesses prefer employees who are direct communicators, people who want to get right to the point and not waste time. Don’t take this abruptness personally. Instead, come to each conversation prepared with summarized, clear, and concise talking points.

Becoming accustomed to directness can take time, but you may find you prefer it over dealing with passive co-workers who have difficulty making decisions or giving clear directions. Their tenuous responses may require you to support or encourage their ideas, regardless of whether you concur.

Alternatively, you can opt to use a firm approach when you encounter passive-aggressive colleagues. These people avoid directness, though they often expect direct results. For example, they might say, “Get it done whenever...