We’ve all been the new kid before. Whether it was in the third grade, on your first soccer team, or at your new job, it can be a stressful time. You don’t know anyone, everything is strange, and if you mess up… it seems as if it could be the end of the world.
While you’ll find many articles out there for employers on how to transition employees, I think it’s time for new employees to take charge of their own transitions. It’s important to be properly onboarded, but that isn’t enough.
Check out these five ways you can ease your transition into a company as a new hire:
Ask questions. You might be worried if you ask too many questions people will think you’re stupid, incompetent, or whatever horrible thing you can think of. This is completely false. You’re new and you’re expected to ask questions. Otherwise, you might find yourself assuming the “right way” to do something and really mess it up.
Introduce yourself. Depending on how you’ve been onboarded, you might be introduced to everyone in the company or to no one. Either way, introduce yourself personally to people in your immediate work area, by the water cooler, and in the lunch room.
Make three connections. When you’re new, you might expect other employees to come out and make friends with you. Sometimes this happens, but most of the time, it’s fantasy. At work, people are more likely to be introverted and stick with the people they already know. Make a point of making a legitimate connection with at least three people in the first week of work. That way, you know at least three people to turn to when you’re confused, frustrated, or excited about something going on in the office.
Take notes. Depending on your training, you might have a whole month to absorb important information or as little as ten minutes. Trainers sometimes forget what it’s like to have loads of information thrown at them all at once. Keep a notepad and pen close by to record the important stuff and don’t be afraid to ask for your supervisor to repeat themselves from time to time.
Pick your attitude. By far, the most important thing you can do as a new employee at a company is to pick the right attitude. Be open to new ideas and flexible with your responsibilities. You never know what can happen in the first month at work.
What do you think? What advice would you like to share with new employees transitioning into a company? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
