How to make the right start in a new job
by paula.fox@haymarket.com, Brand Republic, 19/6/2008
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Change can be stressful. This is especially true when you're finding your feet in a new job. Once you think about, there are several good reasons. You are, of course, leaving behind a familiar environment where you are known and, in turn, know people, and where your foibles are accepted. Stress can inhibit clear thinking and productivity and you may feel pressure to deliver the promise and honour others' expectations of you.
Make the most of your ‘honeymoon period.' Most companies allow you a bit of time to get up to speed, but with the pace of change and delivery speeding up, they may want you to hit the ground running almost as soon as you walk in the door. Either way, events may dictate that you have little or no choice.
There are various things that you can do to help you find your feet.
Be polite and friendly to everyone you meet and make a conscious effort to remember their names
Create your desk environment in a way that's right for you and include things that make you feel good and others used to having around you
Set up your paper filing and, even, your PC's desktop to enable you to have everything at your fingertips and not to waste time when things get busy
Find an ally but don't be pushy in getting to know people. It might turn them off
Be thoughtful to others e.g. offer to get them a sandwich if you are going out for one yourself
Make sure that you have some lunches/drinks arranged with supportive friends/family/ex-colleagues so that you remain upbeat in the first few weeks
Consider investing in coaching to help you through the transition of your new job
Enquire if there is an internal mentoring or buddy scheme, or if not, find out who else is new and befriend them
Make the most of your induction period, or if you aren't given one, design your own
Be proactive and seek out key stakeholders and useful contacts such as the I.T. department to ensure a smooth transition
Browse the intranet, or read the company manual, so you're clear about company policies and you don't inadvertently make any faux pas
Network beyond your own department as this is a key prerequisite to developing at a senior level
Set yourself some short-term goals to create some quick wins
Make some time with your boss to get up to speed quickly with key issues and priorities
Nurture yourself through this time of change. Have a massage, go to bed early, spend time with positive people who champion you
Suss out the internal politics and be sensitive to any colleagues whose nose may be out of joint at your arrival
Sign up for company social events or team games such as soft ball to get to know people in a relaxed way
Put an appointment in your boss's diary after four weeks to share your initial thoughts and ideas whilst you are still fresh and objective
Get your boss to outline clearly their expectations of you in those first four weeks so you know where you stand.
