Starting a new job – part 1

Image by shaymus022 via Flickr

When you start a new job it’s only natural that you want to impress. You want to show your new employer that they’ve made the right decision in hiring you, that you’re a competent and productive member of the team.
But starting a new job, while exciting, can also be one of the most nerve racking things you’ll ever do. You’ll be well outside your comfort zone: the new kid on the block, entering an environment where relationships have already been forged, and where there’s a well established social as well as organisational hierarchy.
In any new job, the first few weeks will be as much about dealing with the unfamiliar and unexpected as they’ll be about applying your skills, knowledge and experience. Here are some suggestions to help you prepare for that all important first day.

• Take a break: taking a week or even two off between jobs can be a good idea. It helps you to make a clean break from your old job, and means you’re starting afresh when you begin your new one.
• Do some digging: remember that research you did before your interview – well, now you’ve got the job it’s time to do a bit more. Immerse yourself in as much information as you can about your new employer. It will help make everything that bit more familiar when you start.
• Ease the burden: make as many decisions as you can before your first day. Plan what you’re going to wear, decide on the route you’re going to take to work – and alternatives in case of transport problems. Do anything you can ahead of time to take some of the pressure off in your first week.
• Look good, feel great: when your first day arrives make sure you look your best. Give yourself extra time to get ready, and pick something from your wardrobe that you know makes you look and feel great. When you look good, you automatically feel more confident – and when you feel confident, you’ll project that confidence to others.
• Don’t skip breakfast: a healthy breakfast is important every day, but especially so when you’re starting a new job. It will help keep your energy levels up, which will help you cope with the rigours of a new workplace.
• Walk tall, and don’t forget to smile: the first time you walk into the office don’t slouch, walk in confidently, head held high, smile, and don’t forget to make eye contact with your new colleagues. This is your one and only chance to make that all important first impression – so make sure it’s a positive one.

Most importantly of all, don’t expect too much of yourself in the first few weeks or even months of your new job. Accept that acclimatising to your new position will take time, and allow yourself that time to adjust. In part 2 of this article next week we’ll look at some of the things you can continue to do during your first few weeks to ease your transition into your new job.

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