Starting a New Job
Starting a new job is both exciting and nerve wracking. You may have been headhunted from a previous job or spent a long time looking for your new role: whatever, your situation, it’s always good to be prepared. So, if you’re looking for new job advice, read on to find our tips for your first few days and weeks in your next role.
1. Do your research
You don’t want to be unaware of the dress code or what time you are starting: a company’s HR department should have sent you an onboarding process, or your new manager should have sent you what you need to know. But what if your company doesn’t have an HR department? Or what if your manager doesn’t get in contact?
Before your first day, research the company: check out their social media posts to get a feel for the office culture and suitable dress code. Get a copy of the employee handbook before your first day so you can review it and know what questions you have in advance.
Depending on your role, it may also help to research your company’s competitors, practise the software you’ll be using on the job – sometimes there are free trials for software packages. Utilise the
powerhouse that is Linkedin and discover your colleagues you may be working with.
2. Have a Test Run Before You Start
If you will be working in the office or on site, practise your commute: drive at the time you would normally be driving so you know the roads and the traffic conditions. If you are using public transport, check the schedules and, again, test run your journey. If you will be working from home, check your internet connection, computer, software and any other equipment you’ll need. Knowing that everything is working smoothly to help you relax for the big day.
3. On Your First Day, Arrive Early
Showing up late for work is never a good sign, especially during your first week. Get to your job 30 to 40 minutes earlier than you normally would so if there are delays getting there, then it should still leave you more than enough of a buffer to arrive on time without feeling panicked. Assuming there are no disasters, it gives you a chance to have a coffee and relax for half an hour before getting to work. There is nothing worse than getting stuck in a traffic jam or behind a tractor enroute. Knowing you have plenty of time will take away the stress.
4. Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions
On your first day, you obviously want to appear capable and confident, but don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially if you’re working remotely. A manager won’t get irritated if an employee clarifies a task to perform it better. Don’t be scared to ask if you could jump on a Zoom call or get together for a quick catch up. You won’t look incompetent: asking questions is often the smartest move you can make.
5. Use a notebook to take notes
Make sure to carry a notebook around to write down your answers to all the questions you have. You may think you will remember what is being told to you but, in fact, we only tend to remember 20% of any given new information at a time. When an overload of information threatens, that notebook will become your lifesaver. Using your phone, even if you’re taking notes, sends the wrong impression.
6. Listen More Than You Talk
Try and absorb as much information as possible before you start giving your own opinions, especially if you’re moving into a leadership position. Don’t disrupt the culture until you’ve proven you’ve something valuable to add. Listening curiously helps you to better connect and understand what is being said and provides valuable information on how to respond. Additionally, it can help you tune into the topics your colleagues are interested in. There is an old saying that goes: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
7. Take Care of Your Mental Health in the Workplace
Starting a new job can be both exciting and daunting for anyone. There are lots of new people to meet and new information to absorb, so it’s really important to look after your mental health in the workplace. Make sure you know how much you can complete so set boundaries and ask for help if you feel out of your depth. You can follow some simple rules to practise self care: get enough sleep, drink and eat properly.
If you’re experiencing mental health difficulties in your new role, get in touch with employment lawyers in London for the right new job advice and support. Mental health discrimination is a serious matter and should be addressed as a priority.
8. Don’t Worry About Imposter Syndrome!
When starting a new job, remember, they chose you. They looked at what you could offer and decided it was in line with what they needed. You may have some doubts about your abilities but that’s just imposter syndrome and you would be surprised home many people suffer from that. Imposter syndrome disproportionately affects people who find it difficult to believe their achievements.
So, with all that new job advice in mind, you should be well equipped to start your role and succeed.
