Many authors write about tips for getting a new job, but quite a few explain what to do next – how to start a new job successfully? New environment, new people, and new responsibilities cause three times more stress than one can expect.
The first day of work tips won’t guarantee career success. However, if you know how do you adjust to working for a new company, you’ll be able to avoid many troubles and controversies. This article may become a helpful guide.
Three main fears you need to overcome
#1. I’ll be an outsider
You are introduced to a group of staff members, who have been working together for a while. They already have certain regulations and conventional rules, common jokes and habits. It is not surprising that newcomers often feel unconfident at first.
Don’t let yourself feel left out for too long. The fear to remain an outsider can make you one. Remember that everyone has been here, and it is normal. Don’t shrink into oneself, communicate with the others and make new friends.
#2. Everyone is way too professional, but me
The other unwarranted fear makes you question every action and mistrust your powers. Stop asking “What if I do something wrong?” every time you get a task. You’ve passed an interview, you’ve been hired, and no one else has those doubts. Learn the essentials and ask questions, that’s it.
#3. I won’t pass a probation
Some start to treat every day of probation as their last day there. Usually, only you notice minor mistakes, and it happens just because you focus on them. If you start to get suspicious and suppose that hiring trainees is an advantage for a company, try to change the attitude.
Five rules that will help you to adapt
#1. Don’t push yourself too hard
During several first days or even weeks, you’ll receive a huge amount of new information. You need to learn a lot. Doing it gradually is a normal thing. Note down everything you hear from colleagues or management. Don’t overextend oneself, it will just cause more stress.
#2. Don’t panic
Be ready that adaptation will take some time. Don’t panic, if new tasks you get seem too complicated or impossible to handle. Everyone has a feeling that they might remain outsiders forever, but it will roll on. In average, the adaptation lasts three months, during which you need:
- to get used to new colleagues, make acquaintances and remember their duties;
- to learn the new orders – company structure, policies, regulations, etc.;
- to figure out all the nuances concerning your duties and area of responsibility;
- to inform yourself about current projects and the work of predecessors;
#3. Keep learning
It is useful to attend all meetings, both formal and informal. Whether you are offered to discuss the launch of a new product or to drink a cup of coffee, accept the invitation. It is the best way to learn about the team and how things work there.
#4. Minimize the stress
A job change is already stressful. The amount of new information, waiting for directions, and anxiety only increase the tension. As a result, you can get sick before even passing probation – this is a psychological reaction to stress. Sound sleep, old friends, and reasonable expectations will keep you healthy.
#5. No fatalism
Last but not least, don’t get crazy with second-guessing. Don’t start making “what if” plans thinking that you are not good enough to pass the probation. Even if you don’t, you’ll just need to find a new job. Keep healthy to do it fast and positive.
