Starting a new job is one of the most exciting challenges in your career, and being able to adjust to a new environment can be challenging! Previously working in retail, agency life was something I had to navigate through with a fresh mindset, so I thought I would share some tips along the way on how to transition into a new role as smoothly as possible.
1. Anticipate Change
The first week of any job can be daunting, however, by going into a new environment with an open mindset and a positive attitude, your onboarding experience can become a much smoother process. When starting a new role, you need to be able to adapt to new situations, new programmes and ways of working, as every workplace runs differently. Having no expectations allows you to detach from any boundaries you may have and step into an environment fulfilled with an ambitious mindset.
2. Get to Know Your New Manager
Getting to know your new manager is such an important step to making yourself feel at ease, especially when starting a new position. On your first day, or even before, find out who they are, how they work and how they’ll help you progress in your career. Catch-up calls are a great way to build a relationship with your manager and are such an integral part of your progression. The last thing you want is to have a manager that you feel you can’t speak to about any challenges you are facing or who doesn’t recognise your achievements – as this can really hinder you and your objectives.
3. Reach Out to Your Colleagues
The sooner you start building relationships with your new colleagues, the more comfortable you’ll be in your new workplace. While working remotely, at the start of my NOVOS journey, I was assigned a catchup session with several colleagues across the team, allowing me to introduce myself and get to know who I am working with. Building these relationships gives you the opportunity to ask your colleagues, who may have different expertise and backgrounds, any questions, which can open you to so many new skills and knowledge.
4. Know Your Benefits
When it comes to starting your new career venture, knowing what you are entitled to and your benefits can be hugely impactful and allow you to navigate how you work more efficiently. At NOVOS, one of the many amazing benefits is flexible working. This gives you the ability to be able to work to suit your needs. As someone who loves to learn and keep active, I am able to easily plan my work schedule so I can also achieve my outside-work goals and development.
5. Ask Questions
I always used to be scared of asking questions because I felt like I was bothering people, but that is what your managers are there for! They are there to help you with whatever question, no matter how small. At the end of the day, filling gaps in your knowledge is for your development, and even if it is just a simple question that requires a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer, it gives validation on the next steps moving forward. You don’t know until you ask!
6. Embrace Change
Working under new management can be daunting. But, taking everything in your stride and learning everything you can from your new working environment can be so beneficial for you in the long term. Remember, you took the new opportunity because you wanted a change, so have fun, embrace everything thrown at you, and put your best foot forward!
Adjusting to a new job can take anything from two to six months, so don’t feel discouraged if you don’t feel settled in right away. The key is to prepare yourself for these less-expected adjustments, facing them with an optimistic and patient attitude which will help you achieve new and exciting milestones within your career.