A period in which, besides all the preparatory interviews, administrative handling and informing your friends and family about your new challenge, the excitement increases as the start date approaches.
Then the time has come! Your first day at your new employer/assignment!
The first days of a new job are often a mix of excitement, uncertainty and challenges. It is a period when you not only get to know your new colleagues and workplace, but also have to prove yourself. While every job and work environment is unique, there are some common issues that almost everyone encounters during the first days. In this blog, we discuss these challenges and provide tips on how to tackle them successfully.
What issues do you run into in the first days of a new job?
- Overwhelming Information
In the first few days, you will be inundated with new information: business processes, tools, names of colleagues, protocols and more. It can feel like trying to fill a bucket with a fire hose.
Tip: Take notes and ask for written documentation or manuals (who writes who stays principle). Prioritise and focus on the most important information you need immediately. Please remember: you don’t have to learn everything in one day.
- Unfamiliarity with Corporate Culture
Every company has its own culture, norms and values. What is the right tone in e-mails? How formal or informal are conversations? How are breaks and meetings handled? It may take some time to get used to this.
Tip: Observe your colleagues and ask questions. A good question is, “How do you guys usually do this?” This shows that you respect the existing culture.
- Technical Challenges
New software, tools or systems can be overwhelming at first. Perhaps you are used to other programmes, or you have to start from scratch.
Tip: Ask for training or support from a colleague. Practise in your own time if possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – it’s better to learn something well than to pretend you get it.
- Building Relationships with Colleagues
Building relationships with new colleagues can be exciting. Who are the key people? Who do you need to work with? How does everyone fit into the team?
Tip: Adopt an open and friendly attitude. Participate in informal conversations and lunch breaks. A simple question such as “How long have you been working here?” can already spark a conversation.
- Uncertainty about Expectations
What exactly does your manager expect from you? What are your goals for the first month? Sometimes expectations are not immediately clear, which can lead to uncertainty.
Tip: During the first few days, ask for a clear overview of your tasks and responsibilities. Schedule a meeting with your manager to align goals and expectations.
- Finding balance between Independence and Asking for help
It is a fine line between asking too many questions and being too independent. You don’t want to come across as knowing everything already, but you also don’t want to be too dependent.
Tip: Try to find a solution yourself first, but don’t hesitate to ask for help if you get stuck. Show that you take initiative but are also willing to learn.
- Physical and Mental Fatigue
The first days of a new job can be mentally and physically exhausting. Your brain is working overtime to process all the new information, and you may be more tense than usual.
Tip: Ensure adequate rest and relaxation outside working hours. Take short breaks during your working day to catch your breath.
- Dealing with Unknown Processes
Every company has its own way of working. Maybe there are processes that are different from your previous job, or completely new to you.
Tip: Ask for explanations and observe how colleagues tackle certain tasks. Be patient – it takes time to master everything.
- Making a first impression
The first few days are crucial for the impression you make on your colleagues and manager. You want to appear professional and competent, but also approachable and collegial.
Tip: Be yourself, but keep in mind the company culture. Show enthusiasm, ask questions and show that you are motivated to learn.
- Doubts about Your Own Capacities
It is normal to have doubts about your own abilities at first. “Do I fit in here?” or “Can I handle this?” are thoughts that occur to many people.
Tip: Remember that you were hired because the company believes in your abilities. Give yourself time to grow and make mistakes – that’s part of the learning process.
Conclusion
The first days of a new job can be challenging, but they are also a chance to grow and build a strong foundation for your future within the company. By preparing yourself, being open to feedback and being patient with yourself, you can get through this period successfully.
In addition, most companies nowadays have an internal onboarding programme or so-called ”Buddy” system you can latch on to in the first weeks to get up and running quickly.
Know that you are not the only one who runs into these issues. Everyone goes through it, and it’s part of the process of starting a new job. Stay positive, ask questions and enjoy the new experience!
Wondering how N&J Connect can help you with your new employer/assignment? We get you off to a flying start and share valuable information (from parking to getting coffee to the above tips) to make an unforgettable first impression right away!
