How can you ease the stress of starting a new job?
Whether you’re a recent grad or seasoned professional, starting a new job can be both exciting and terrifying. You’ll encounter a new organizational culture, supervisor, responsibilities, and colleagues. How can you prevent it from becoming an overwhelming experience? Have a plan! Your job search strategy was effective (you landed the job!), so now it’s time to develop and execute a new job strategy. Some of the keys to success include connecting with others, doing your research, and focusing on positivity.
You networked and connected with people during your job search, and it’s important that you don’t stop now! Get to know your supervisor, colleagues, and clients. Your personality will determine how you connect. Will you be extroverted and work the room at your first staff meeting, or will you connect with people one on one? Introduce yourself and show interest in your colleagues to start building productive relationships. Rather than eating alone in your office, accept the invitation to join the group for lunch. Keep on the look-out for someone that would be a great mentor that can help guide you through your first few months on the job and even beyond. It’s great to have a go-to person that you can confide in who will offer valuable advice. Ask thoughtful questions and listen attentively as others offer support while you settle into your new position. Realize that although your colleagues have already established relationships with each other, you should create your own opinions of people rather than buying into office gossip and politics.
Research helped you land the job, and it can also help you thrive as you begin your new work experience. Learn as much as you can about company culture and standard operating procedures. Meet with your supervisor and clarify expectations when it comes to your job duties and what you can do to add value to the organization through your role. If you are in a position where you will be working with clients, research key initiatives, the history of the relationships, and what your collective goals are. Ensure that you communicate effectively and keep people informed when it comes to projects, events, and company deliverables. Although new colleagues will hopefully be helpful and supportive, be proactive and try to find answers to your questions yourself before asking others. That will allow you to establish a familiarity with company resources and information, and it will also show your colleagues that you are a proactive person who can think critically and solve problems. Even when you are settled, continue to conduct research as necessary to maintain a high quality of work and create new opportunities for your company or organization.
The number one thing I looked for in a candidate when I was a recruiter was a positive attitude. Of course candidates were required to possess skills and knowledge to do the job, but the power of positivity can’t be underestimated. It tells you about the person’s character, shows how they approach work (and life), and can be an indicator of work ethic and motivation. When you start a new job, you will encounter many people that you’ve never met before. To start off on the right foot, be positive and engaging. Ask to help others, as this will help you build connections and learn more about your organization. Be proactive; look for solutions to challenges and tap into your creativity and problem-solving skills. When supervisors and colleagues help you, offer them a sincere thank you during a conversation or via a quick note. Focus on the positive in each situation, as challenges can become opportunities and positivity will help you build a strong foundation in your new position.
When you start a new job, make sure you connect with others, do your research, and maintain a positive attitude. This will help you navigate the new challenges you will face, and set the stage for a long and productive tenure at your new workplace!
