Hi..I have recently started a new job, have just finished my first week in fact.

Anonymous

September 18,2021 at 3:50PM UTC

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Hi..I have recently started a new job, have just finished my first week in fact.

It is a small family based business with just one coworker sitting beside me in the office, everyone else is in and out all day.

I know its early days, but How long does it generally take ppl to get to know a coworker? I am used to a busy office with lots of ppl, constant noise of talking and phones ringing but i still needed to be able to do my work and focus. When its a silent office with just me and her, i dont know how much i should be chatting and how much i should be sitting here doing my work.( when we are not chatting you can hear the clocks ticking) She is really friednly and easy to work with but i havent found anything to chat about to her yet.

Just a rant about whats going on in my head i guess..i like it but just...any tips fpr how long it takes ppl to get to know their coworkers in a new office, or any experiences with just one person? I am typically shy, i like to chat but takes me ages to thaw out and get know ppl.

Thanks for listening to me and appreciate and tips!!

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AnonymousSeptember 18,2021 at 6:04PM UTC
She too may shy & like to chat and takes her ages to thaw out and get to know people.
It takes some months to connect with people, especially since most are only around you quickly as they come and go. It's a small company so give it time.
Maybe get out if your head and take a walk on break or lunch. Invite your office mate.
Stef FlorieSeptember 20,2021 at 2:15PM UTC
If the silence is deafening - and ticking clocks are annoying! You could plug in a fan or play some white noise, provided it's quiet enough.
You could also ask your coworker work-related questions, especially if she has had anything to do with your training.
Alternatively, you could ask your coworker how she feels about music during the workday. You may find yourself a new music buddy, or at the very least, start an interesting conversation around something to work-related.
AnonymousSeptember 21,2021 at 5:42PM UTC
When joining a new company, it takes time for both parties to get to know each other, in my experience a few months. Be friendly but do not chat too much, as it may turn against you (remember you are there to work). As time goes by you will learn more about each other and then will find topics to chat about.
AJ MitchellSeptember 21,2021 at 5:56PM UTC
Definitely more than a week! Agree with the other comments especially regarding making your own white noise. Give it some time and be patient. Good luck
Mikal Ann ByrdSeptember 21,2021 at 8:18PM UTC
I agree with the suggestion to invite your co-worker to lunch. Being away from the office may make it easier to get to know her. If she has family photos up in her cubicle ask her about them. Everyone loves to talk about their kids. Good luck in your new job!
Jennifer FalandysSeptember 27,2021 at 12:48AM UTC
There are some great suggestions here! I love the idea of taking your co-worker out to lunch or using a sound machine or fan to cut the silence a little bit. It does take time to get to know people and the environment. Give it a month or two and give her some time to feel comfortable as well. Best of luck to you and congrats on the new job and completion of the first week.