On that note — I would suggest making a name plate/tag for your desk, if you aren’t already provided one. Most companies provide these for employees, and just because you are new doesn’t mean you should be left anonymous. Include your title (if appropriate), as it will help people place you in the company structure.

Also google alerts are very important if your a heavily client/service oriented firm. I set them up for major clients to have stuff to talk about to the client or managers. Also can alert you to service needs they may need and you can anticipate issues.

Only disagreement is the busy sign. I prefer open doors (if my cube had one) If I need to really concentrate our office provides focus rooms where you can close the door and work uninterrupted (which I never use). I think it is more important to be open, especially in the beginning of your career. If someone does interrupt some important work, i politely tell them, I’ll come to their desk in x hours, I have to finish something.

Good post.