When onboarding at a new job, how do you build relationships and earn the trust of your coworkers?
Before you are even introduced to their teams, you have to convince your interviewer you would be able to be naturally integrated into them. Therefore, it is important to understand the culture their teams embody before answering this question. Typically, when hiring managers recruit, looking for the right fit, there is a type of personality that feels individual to their brand. Air New Zealand is looking for individuals who are supportive, hard-working, sharing, adaptable, friendly, outgoing, comfortable in their skin, and have a sense of humour.
"Work with a talented team of people and get the support you need as you start your journey with Air New Zealand. Be a team player who is willing to roll up your sleeves to help in areas that can be quite divorced from your job description. A willingness to learn and share knowledge, ability to adapt to the changing business environment and be prepared to take on new responsibilities. Outgoing and friendly, with a sense of self and the ability to adapt to change. Don't take yourself too seriously and have a sense of humour!"
"I feel that the best way to earn the trust of my co-workers is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles."
Here are some ways that you can build trust with your coworkers at Air New Zealand:
- Show common courtesy. Say hello, hold the elevator door, bring coffee now and then
- Be respectful in your communication, avoid over-cc'ing unnecessarily in emails
- Avoid being a distraction, and respect the use of their time
- Respect their personal space and the line between work life and personal life
- Always ask if they have time before diving into a conversation
- Try to find the answer to your questions before running to ask a manager or coworker
- Connect with them on LinkedIn but avoid more personal social media platforms
- Treat everyone the same, regardless of their job title
- Do not complain about your job to your coworkers
- Reach out to new employees and make them feel comfortable
- Own up to your mistakes and fix them
- Be timely with your followups and meet your deadlines
Being the person to be awarded an opportunity, out of all the other candidates who were competing for it, is a great feeling. And although it is perfectly natural to feel eager to prove yourself and show your new employer what you've got to contribute, try not to let that victory go to your head. Even though the hiring manager was convinced you are the right person for the job, all your new teammates haven't had a chance to interview you yet. And, the first impression you make on them is just as important, if not more, than the impression you made on your interviewer. So this question aims to assess your approach to earning the trust of their teams while building new and enduring relationships with them.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I feel that the best way to earn the trust of my co-workers is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles.
Rachelle's Feedback
Very good answer! You show a strong ability to make relationships built on strong principles.
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