New season, new job

The summer season is nearly over and many of us are returning to work after our annual summer break. Some may even have taken the time away to reflect on work and ponder the opportunity for a fresh career.

New research from Monster.co.uk reveals that four fifths (80 per cent) of workers questioned are prompted to look for a new job after returning from holiday. Rather than feeling refreshed and ready to get stuck back into work life, nearly half (47 per cent) of respondents admit that they are definitely more likely to search for a new job following their summer break, while 33 per cent say they are probably more likely to do so.

Starting a new job can be a daunting prospect. The first three months of any new job is a stressful process for both you and your new company.With a new culture, processes and procedures to adopt, along with what seems like a new tribal business language to get your head around, it is not surprising that this is the time many people jump ship! Self-questioning, have I made a huge mistake? Was I too hasty in leaving my last job? And the all too common reality “the job isn’t the one that was sold to me”.

So how can you ensure a smooth transition into your new job and ensure you hit the ground running from day one?

1. Research and prepare for your first day

Any background reading that can be done before you start will help you get a grasp of the job. Being familiar with what needs to be done will also help. Review job the description to establish your responsibilities. Research the company online, review Twitter, newsletters etc. Ensure you are up to date with current company news.

2. Make the right first impression

First impressions count: First opinions are often based on appearance and body language. Wear clothes that are appropriate for the workplace and that you feel good in. Check what's expected to be worn and buy a simple work wardrobe that you can easily mix and match.

3. Update LinkedIn

Include your new company, job title and ensure you connect with your new colleagues. Let your old network know where you are working so you can continue to leverage those relationships. Now is a perfect time to request recommendations and keep your achievements current.

4. Be a Self-Starter; Take Initiative

In most situations, in your first days on the job, you will be given small pieces of work — to cut your teeth on. As you finish assignments and are ready to handle a bigger workload, take the initiative and ask for more. Don’t just sit there waiting for your next project.

5. Set goals and objectives

Refer to your job description to set goals/objectives.This will show your manager that you are self-motivated, organised and keen to stretch yourself.It also ensures that your actions are aligned to shared business objectives.

6. Speak up

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, take notes. You are not expected to know everything on day one so, relax and always ask questions or ask for help when you need it. Remember that it’s better to ask before you’ve completed the task the wrong way and wasted time.

7. Keep communicating with your manager

Your manager is not a mind-reader, so keep him/her informed of how you are doing. Especially in those early days, meet with your manager to establish a rapport and working rhythm gaining a firm understanding of what they expect from you.This is especially important if you work remotely. This does not mean that you are knocking on their office door every time you have a question or a problem, minor issues can often be solved by discussing with your team members.

8. You sold yourself, now it’s time to deliver

You sold yourself in the interview, now is the time to start proving you were the right candidate for the job. Don’t sit back and think you have a bit of time to “settle in”; you need to be on your game and be delivering from day one, so set up meetings, find out your immediate tasks/deliverables and get to work. Don’t just go off doing what you think they need, find out exactly what your manager wants and deliver.

We’d love to hear how your first day in your new job goes, or if you have any tips to share on surviving day one!

Good luck!