Starting a new job can be nerve-wracking. You have new colleagues to get to know, new responsibilities, and a new routine to get used to. It’s hard to know what to expect, and it can take time before you find your feet and feel confident in your new workplace. That time is worth spending, and we’ve got some tips to help you through the first year of your new job.
Getting Started
First impressions count. When you are first starting your job, remember your “personal brand.” What type of employee do you want your colleagues to know you as? What values do you want others to notice in you? Keep these things in mind as you meet new people and take on early responsibilities. Always make sure you are representing yourself in a positive way.
Many employers treat your first 90 days as an extension of the interview. So, as well as putting your best self forward every day, be careful with early demands. Flexibility around schedules and how you handle your work comes with trust. So, take the time to build that trust first, by showing up and doing well from the beginning. The early days of a new job a great time to get into these good habits that will set you up for success down the line. Practice time management skills and setting priorities to avoid responsibilities piling up.
Ask questions! As a new hire, there is always a lot to learn. Make sure to research the company and your job before you start, but don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. This will help you get things right the first time, instead of making a mistake due to not knowing something.
What’s in a Year?
Even when you ask questions at every opportunity, it takes time to get used to your new job. Recruit Shop says it can take a new employee up to one to two years to adjust to a role.
During your first year, you can spend time understanding your tasks. You will have the chance to become more familiar with your responsibilities. And, it will be clearer what your supervisor expects of you. The first year at your new company will also give you time to get to know your coworkers and company culture. You will start feeling less unsure, and your confidence will build with time.
You will also get familiar with every yearly event your company goes through. These might be things like seasonal sales, or a review that occurs once a year. Getting to experience these first-hand can help you feel more adjusted to how things work.
Dealing with Challenges
Challenges come up in every area of our lives, and work is no exception. Handling difficulties at your job can be tough, but there are ways to get through and come out stronger for it.
First, it is important to choose your battles. Remember that you get to choose how you look at things. If you can spend less time dealing with small frustrations, you will be more productive. Not to mention, you will be happier at work.
Sometimes, challenges at work can make you want to close off and do the bare minimum until you can get out of there. But this can often end up making you feel more drained and isolated at the end of the day. Try to see challenges as an opportunity to give it your all and test yourself. See how you can use your strengths and abilities to overcome difficulties and do great work.
Being challenged is also a great opportunity for personal growth. You can learn a lot about yourself from how you deal with tough situations. You might even discover a strength you didn’t know you had.
Finally, remember your “why”. You might be taking your first step towards a bigger career goal. Or, you might be taking on a new role to support yourself through school. Thinking about your goals and reasons for coming to your new job can be a great help to stick with it and keep going.
Remembering your “why” is a useful mindset to help you stay on track and get started on the right foot, too. Start your new job following these tips, and you’ll be sure to have a great first year.
