Hit the ground running
A new job is an exciting opportunity, but it doesn’t come without its challenges. New routines, new responsibilities, a new working environment and a whole bunch of people you haven’t met before.
That’s a lot to take on! In some organisations, there may be a structured onboarding process, but in others you’ll likely be diving in at the deep end. Either way, you’re on a steep learning curve.
Here are some tips to help you get through the first few weeks.
- Prepare and Research:
Familiarize yourself with the company and its culture before your first day. Reach out to HR or your hiring manager a couple of weeks before your start and find out where you need to be, start time and what you need to bring with you on your first day.
- Professional Attire:
Dress appropriately to make a positive first impression. You may also find it useful to get a feel for the company dress code by checking out their social media posts and website.
- Time Management:
Prioritize tasks, manage your time efficiently, and meet deadlines. Test drive your commute to your new workplace, so you know what to expect and where to park. On your first day, you may find it useful leave additional time to arrive just in case you get stuck in a traffic jam. Familiarise yourself with the workplace layout and key areas like restrooms and breakrooms.
- Take Initiative & Learn Company Tools:
However, experienced you are, there is always plenty to learn when you start a new role. Where possible, take the initiative to research and find answers yourself. Otherwise, ask for help and guidance, listen, take notes and you’ll soon be operating with your usual confidence and autonomy. Learn and understand the software and tools used in your role.
- Listen & Ask Questions:
Pay close attention during orientation and in meetings to understand expectations and procedures. Don’t hesitate to seek clarification or ask for help—it shows initiative and eagerness to learn.
- Positive Attitude:
Maintain a positive outlook, be open to feedback, and adapt to the work environment. Volunteer for tasks, showcase your skills, and be proactive in contributing to team goals. However, ensure you manage expectations early on. If you always turn up early, leave after everyone else, say ‘yes’ to everything and answer your manager’s emails at the weekend, you are creating precedents that will be difficult to break.
- Ask for Feedback:
It’s important to find out how you are getting on in your role early on. So, ask for feedback from your manager. What is going well? What do you need to improve on? Being proactive gives you a chance to tweak your approach and develop the skills you need to succeed.
- Balance Work and Life:
Maintain a healthy work-life balance to sustain productivity and well-being.
- Networking:
Build relationships with colleagues; networking is crucial for a successful career. A buddy or mentor can support your transition to a new role in a new organisation, especially if you find someone you really connect with. If there is no official buddy system in place, why not set up an informal arrangement? This could be as simple as organising regular coffee chats with a trusted co-worker.
Yes, starting a new job can be scary. But with a little advance planning and the willingness to learn, you’ll soon be settled – and perhaps showing others the ropes once day soon.
If you are looking for a new role we recruit for a range of contract and temp roles. To discuss our latest opportunities, contact the professional team at Optimal Workforce today on admin@optimalworkforce.com.au or 02 8077 7030.
