What kind of guidance do you want when you start a new job?
What kind of support are you looking for?
Maybe you can define clear expectations for the position already at the interview process.
Maybe you can determine the personality of your future boss so you can immediately adapt to his/her working style.
Or maybe, like most new hires you need time to adjust to your new role, to your new relationship with your boss, your peers and your subordinates.
The importance is that the more prepared you are for your new position the easier it is to have early wins, create outstanding working relationships and ensure balance from stress and frustration.
Here is a short list of some fundamental do’s and don’ts to think about if you are starting a new job.
Do this !
Clarify expectations early and often: Already at the interview process focus on the expectations and clarify them. Once in your position revisit regularly and make sure that the expectations have not shifted.
Negotiate timelines for understanding and action planning: Buy yourself time to understand the new organization and to prepare an action plan. Avoid getting caught up in “fire-fighting” or be pressured to make calls before you are ready.
Take 100 % responsibility for making the relationship work: You are the one that need to adapt to your manager’s style and make sure that you create a relationship that works.
Aim for early wins important to your boss: Whatever your own priorities, figure out what your boss cares most about. Focus on 3 things and discuss these every time you interact.
Things not to do !
Stay away or stay hidden: Plan regular meetings and create a relationship by putting yourself on your boss’s agenda.
Surprise your boss: No one likes bad news, but if it comes as a surprise it’s even worse. Make sure to report emerging problems immediately. It’s best when it comes from you and not someone else.
Approach your boss only with problems: Whenever an emerging problem, bring a potential solution to the table. It does not need to be perfect but a plan for how you can begin to address the issue.
Run down your checklist: Your boss most likely wants to hear what you are working on and how he/she can help. Bring at most 3 things you need to share or on which you need action.
With these basic rules in mind, you can begin your new job with serenity and create trustworthy relationships.
Until next time,
Be Bold, Be Courageous and BE BRILLIANT!