With any big life changes, emotions and feelings of stress can become overwhelming. You may even feel disorientated. Michael Watkins, the author of the preeminent guide, The First 90 Days, calls the first three months of a new job the time most "fraught with peril and loaded with opportunity." Research also states that changing jobs is one of the most difficult and stressful things humans experience.
If you have decided to take the plunge and explore a new job, we have some tips to make this transition a little less stressful.
Tip 1: Always carry a notebook with you. Focus on spending time listening and taking notes. Make sure you really understand the company and their values. A little research goes a long way to making you feel more comfortable.
Tip 2: Arrive early and leave late. During your first few months, everyone is observing. The best way to fit in is to study the behaviour of your new co-workers. If you arrive early enough, you will be able to have time to chat with your new colleagues and establish relationships and get to know them a little better. By leaving late, you show dedication and commitment. This doesn’t mean work until midnight. Fifteen minutes after the workday is over, is a good guideline. We are just saying don’t wait for the bell, drop your pen and run out screaming “works over”.
Tip 3: Go the extra mile. When you're starting out in a career, there are very few jobs that are below you. Everyone has to start somewhere. If you notice someone taking on a task that no one really wants to do, offer to assist them. But make sure you have the time to take it on. Management instantly sees when employees go the extra mile. Should they be a company that takes care of their employees, doing this, will be a good return on investment. It's always a good idea to demonstrate your work ethic and prove yourself early on.
Tip 4: Dress the part. Remember the saying “first impressions last”. Before starting your job, have a talk with the hiring manager or human resources department to make sure you understand what the acceptable attire is for your new workplace. This is not the time to push the boundaries, so stick to the dress code and dress appropriately and professionally.
Tip 5: Show that you are a team player. Be cautious of suggesting new policies or strategies during your first few weeks, especially if you're giving suggestions on how to make improvements. It might not be the best way to demonstrate that you are a team player. You should want to make a good impression as soon as you arrive at a new job, and show your new employer they made the right choice in hiring you.
You will be okay. Remember that it takes a few weeks to get used to everything and a new job is a big life change. Each business has their own company culture and their own way of doing things. There is still a lot to learn when it comes to assertiveness, confidence, problem-solving, decision-making, time management, leadership and many other soft skills.
The Mindspa Institute offers a wide range of soft skill training solutions. Visit our website www.themindspa.co.za or if you prefer chatting over the phone, please feel free to give us a call on 010 110 0226.
