Businesspeople having meeting in conference room.

All relationships, including those of employers and employees, involve expectations and conflicts tend to occur when expectations are not met.

Employer expectations

When you start a new job, you should try to make sure you have a clear understanding of what your new employer expects of you. 

The most common employer expectations include:

  • a positive attitude
  • dependability
  • continual learning
  • initiative
  • co-operation. 

Familiarising yourself with the etiquette of the work place you are about to enter and presenting yourself in a professional manner will be important to make a great first impression.

Employee expectations

It's also important to give some thought to what you expect of your new employer. 

Employee expectations include:

  • the timely and accurate payment of wages
  • adequate training
  • safe working conditions
  • full explanation of all company policies and especially of your job responsibilities
  • fair and constructive feedback from your supervisor. 
Most of these employee expectations are not only reasonable, but also are required by law.