Finding Your Feet: A Guide for HR Directors on Navigating a New Role Successfully

Have you recently changed jobs? Going from one place of employment to another can be stressful. You have to learn office politics, the unspoken rules, and the overall culture of the workplace. Fortunately, changing jobs doesn’t have to be so intimidating.

I’m San Francisco Bay Area corporate entertainer Cosmo. Each year, I create wonderful memories for Fortune 500 companies and private events. My goal with this article is to help you (or perhaps someone you manage) ease their way into the new work setting as seamlessly as possible. Let’s dive in!

New Job Tip #1: You’re Not Alone

When you join a new team in a new environment, it may feel like you’re on an island by yourself. But many came before you who felt the same way. Being the new person may feel odd at first. Remind yourself that all of your new coworkers were in the same boat as you at one time.

New Job Tip #2: Make Your First Day Count

Remember the old feeling about first impressions? On your first day, make sure you’re on time. Be dressed professionally for the job. Get a good night’s sleep the night before. Don’t let your cell phone distract you. Smile a lot and greet everyone you interact with. Be sure to ask questions when you’re unsure of something.

New Job Tip #3: Just Ask

When you’re hired for a job, those in charge chose you for a reason. While it’s understandable and even natural to feel like you have to be perfect right out of the gate, don’t put that much pressure on yourself. Those in charge likely expect some growing pains while you get acclimated to your new environment.

But if you run into trouble, remember you can ask for help. Whether it’s your co-workers or direct supervisors, there are folks in your company who want you to succeed. Reach out and ask questions. You’ll feel better getting the answers you need.

New Job Tip #4: Polish Your Skills

Very few industries remain stagnant. Technology and interpersonal communications all change. If you’re in a new job in an area you’ve been working in for some time, update your skills. Research new developments in your workspace. Familiarize yourself with the latest trends.

The more prepared you are, the better you’ll feel. And your new co-workers will sense this confidence. And this updated knowledge will come in handy in case something unexpected is thrown at you. You’ll also feel more comfortable participating in work-related conversations with your team members and especially your supervisors.

New Job Tip #5: Meet with Your Boss

As soon as you can, set up a meeting with your boss. Discuss expectations and job performance. While many such topics may have been covered during the interview process, you’ll likely want more details once you’re officially on board. This early conversation will also help you learn to adapt to your new boss’s working style.

New Job Tip #6: Learn Where You Fit

You’ll want to familiarize yourself with your new company’s internal structure. What’s the pecking order? How are questions handled? Where do your co-workers fit in relation to your position in the company? It’s a lot to keep track of. Take copious notes. Ask plenty of questions. Listen carefully.

As you learn more about the company’s structure, take note of who is the most respected and (hopefully) also the most approachable. Seek those folks out and begin to cultivate a relationship with them.

New Job Tip #7: Look for Social Opportunities

Does your new workplace have a softball league? Game night? If not, suggest one. A casual Friday cocktail hour might be just the thing to bond with all your new work buddies. Each of you gets to see each other as a real person. Once you get past the traditional shop talk, the conversation will shift to other topics. Soon, you’re connecting in ways that don’t necessarily involve work.

New Job Tip #8: Give Yourself Time

It’s tempting to want to leave a new job if things don’t go well initially. But remember that anytime you change jobs, there is going to be an adjustment period. And this may be affected by many of the things earlier in this list. Give yourself time to adjust before making the rash decision to quit your job too soon.

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