Hunting for a new role can take so much time and effort, it’s easy to forget what happens after you’ve accepted a job offer – actually starting a new job! A lot of focus is placed on how to get your CV noticed and how to impress during an interview, but making sure you start your new role on the right foot is just as important.
Luckily, human beings are pretty predictable when it comes to making mistakes, so the rest of us can learn how to avoid them. There are six common areas where new hires tend to slip up, so take note of the below and make sure you don’t fall into the same trap!
Turning up late
Not being on time on your first day is one of the most common mistakes made by new employees – they’re so excited about starting a new role that they forget to plan their journey to an unfamiliar place. If possible, do a ‘dry run’ of your commute before your first day, so you can predict just how long it will take. Then leave a contingency of at least 20 minutes just in case!
Getting the dress code wrong
When starting a new role, you want to feel like part of the team as soon as possible. A big part of this is fitting in with the working culture, including the dress code. You may have worn a suit in your last job, but if your new workplace is more ‘casual Friday every day of the week’, you’ll stand out like a sore thumb. Talk to your recruiter and they’ll be able to point you in the right sartorial direction.
Trying to make your mark too soon
Everyone wants to feel like their job matters, and it can be tempting for new hires to jump right in and shake things up, just to make their mark.
In most cases it’s better to take your time, get a feel for the culture and processes in your new company, and make measured decisions rather than drastic ones.
Bringing bad habits with you
With a fresh start comes a chance to introduce good habits – don’t bring all your bad ones with you! Start as you mean to go on with positive choices like taking regular screen breaks, eating properly and getting some fresh air on your lunch break. If there’s a particular area or skillset that you’ve always wanted to improve, talk to your superior about arranging some training.
Not asking questions
New hires are keen to make a good impression and be seen as capable and self-sufficient, and can sometimes be reluctant to ask questions. However, it’s preferable to ask a question than suffer in ignorance. Now is the time to absorb as much information as possible about your new workplace and colleagues, so you can do your new job to the best of your ability.
Losing momentum
Once the excitement of starting a new position has worn off, don’t make the mistake of losing that initial momentum.
It’s important to make a good start, but it’s equally important to keep up the energy and enthusiasm after the honeymoon is over!
And don’t forget, your recruiter will still be there for you as you take your first steps in your new role, and will be happy to chat through any questions or concerns you may have.
