Settling into a new workplace

A new workplace. New colleagues. New processes and systems. A new work structure. **Gulp**

Let’s rewind to before the nerves kicked in. Oh, don’t get us wrong - nerves are a good thing. They identify that we’re eager for something but could mean we are a little apprehensive, like something bad is going to happen. A new job is a positive thing so let’s talk about settling down and pushing those worrying thoughts aside.

ONE:

Be yourself. You were hired for your skillset, experience and personality. Don’t waste time and energy trying to be something you’re not. You won’t feel settled and it may cause you unneeded stress.

TWO:

Adhere to the dress code but wear things you’re comfortable in and feel express ‘you’. There’s nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable in a new environment (physically and mentally). It’ll give you a confidence boost too.

THREE:

Take in the training. It goes without saying, listen and if it’s your way of learning, take down notes. You’ll thank yourself later and it’ll show your dedication to the role.

FOUR:

Ask questions. It shows you’re keen to learn and do the job to the best of your ability. It’ll help you get to know the business and your role, so that you feel more confident when making decisions and going about your day to day.

FIVE:

Get to know your job description, so you know what is expected of you – individually and as part of a team.

SIX:

Make a part of your workplace like home. Whether that’s a plant on your desk, your favourite mug, or your laptop screensaver, have something that brings you comfort at work.

SEVEN:

Don’t be afraid to jump into company socials. It’s a great opportunity for you to get to know your colleagues on a level outside of ‘work mode’. It’ll help you build rapport and feel more at ease in the workplace when it comes to communication of things like deadlines for example.

EIGHT:

Keep track of your achievements and challenges. Daily/ weekly reflection can be really helpful for progression and it’s also a great tool to reassure you if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

NINE:

Ask for feedback or schedule regular one to one’s with your manager. This way you can talk through the parts of your role you feel you’re breezing through and areas you’re finding more challenging. It gives you the opportunity to gauge how you’re getting on as a whole and feedback from their side will help you with improvements. It could also be a chance for you to get to know them a bit better – a bit of small talk before diving into performance etc.

TEN:

Step outside of your comfort zone. Science has proved this is a healthy practice and pushes us to discover more of what we’re good at and enjoy.

Although the list could go on, we’ll stop at ten. We all experience life events differently so adapt your way. Just remember why you moved roles and chose this position and company.