7 Ways To Set Yourself Up For Success! When Starting a New Job
Starting a new job is exciting and overwhelming at the same time. You’re excited because you want to learn something new and grow professionally, but you’re also nervous because you don’t know what to expect from this new environment. However, there are some things you should keep in mind when starting a new job.
Learn the culture – This might seem obvious, but if you think about it, it really isn’t. Take the time to observe how work gets done in the organization where you’ll be working. Ask questions about the processes and procedures used in the workplace. Find out who holds which roles and responsibilities. Look into the history of the company and find out how it got started.
Network – One of the most important aspects of networking is being able to network effectively. In order to do this, you need to get comfortable talking to people and asking for help. Join professional organizations and attend events hosted by those organizations. Attend conferences and seminars related to your field. Volunteer to speak at local events and community gatherings.
Show up prepared – Whether you’re going to meetings or interviews, show up well-prepared. Bring copies of your resume and cover letter along with any relevant materials (e.g., references). Know the names of key players in the department/company and prepare a list of questions ahead of time.
Get involved – Getting involved early on in your career can build relationships that can last throughout your entire tenure at the company. Make it a point to talk to different members of the team and ask them about themselves. Do they have hobbies outside of work? Are they married? Do they have children? Talk to them about anything and everything.
Stay positive – Even though you might be feeling stressed and anxious at times, try to stay optimistic. When you do encounter problems, take the time to reflect on what went wrong and figure out ways to prevent similar situations in the future. Also, look for opportunities to improve your skills and knowledge. Focus on the positives and you’ll be surprised at how quickly you adapt to your new surroundings.
Set realistic expectations – No matter how much you like the idea of working somewhere else, you won’t always enjoy every aspect of your new job. The best way to deal with this is to set reasonable expectations. For example, if you’ve been looking forward to spending more time with family, then make sure that you schedule enough time off during your first few weeks so that you can spend quality time with them.
Build a support system – Having friends and family close by will help you cope with the stressors of starting a new job. They can also provide moral support as you navigate your way through the transition period.