I just started a new job last Monday. The company seemed very motivated to hire me, and even came up quite a bit to get closer to my requested salary expectations.

The job is in a relatively new field for me, but I know that I’ll be successful doing it.

My first week was typical stuff. On boarding, learning about the company culture etc. I’ve showed up early everyday, have been cordial and polite with my fellow colleagues and have been incredibly dedicated at learning my new role. I chat with my coworkers at lunch and always greet them in the morning and afternoon when I leave.

On the Friday after my first week, my manager called me to their office to provide some feedback. I was told that I haven’t been acting “like a human”. Of course was a bit surprised and asked if this was related to my performance and was told it was more of a social issue. I was then asked to “socialize” with my coworkers more (go to their desk and chat with them etc).

I have to say, I was a bit shocked and honestly a little disappointed. I have been very outward and friendly with my colleagues.

I explained that I’ve been focused on learning my new role, the office culture, and that I always observe and learn about my surroundings to see where and how I will fit in.

I just want to know what others think about this issue? Is it normal for a manager to tell an employee they don’t “act like a human”, and give feedback based on how they perceive my social interactions?

Would you consider this a red flag?

I’m super excited about this job and honestly think it will be super engaging and I will be successful in the role. I enjoy my colleagues, the office culture, and my actual work.

I’m feeling a bit down on myself because I’m not a shy person and usually fit in, which I thought I was doing. It’s kind of bothering me that my personality, which is friendly, energetic and outgoing, is something that would potentially put my employment at risk.

Perhaps I’ve not been the most chatty or outgoing person I usually am during my first week, mainly due to trying to focus on my role and learning the job. But by no means have I been a complete weirdo or anything like that.

What do you think, is this normal? What could I be doing to improve?