So, you’re starting a new job. Awesome! It’s an exciting time. I’m sure you are looking forward to your new venture and getting started. You might also be a little nervous. You want to make a great impression on your new manager and co-workers. Sometimes, when you put too much pressure on yourself, you make mistakes.
Our Toronto recruiters have seen many top talents arrive to a new job a little hot and make some mistakes.
We don’t want you to make the same mistakes as others. So, in speaking with my recruitment colleagues, we devised the following list of the most common mistakes to avoid when starting a new job. Below we’ll list the top mistakes and the answers to some common questions job seekers have about starting a new role.
What Are The Top Mistakes People Make When Starting A New Job? Here’s 10:
There are a variety of common mistakes our recruiters see when people start a new job. There is a tendency to try to do it on your own, take on too much work initially, not seek out feedback enough and fail to integrate into company culture. Here’s a list of top mistakes:
1. Underestimating the role
Even with years of industry experience, every company has unique roles and expectations. So, there will be a learning curve. Some roles can be more complex than they appear. So, it’s essential to fully understand the specific responsibilities, challenges, and performance metrics associated with the new position. Avoid assuming that your previous experience directly translates to the new role without careful consideration.
2. Not asking questions when you are unsure
No one expects you to know everything from day one. They expect you to ask questions. It is a way to show you are willing and eager to learn. Asking questions is the best way to eliminate confusion and clarify everything about your role. Never be afraid to ask questions.
3. Trying to do too much too fast
Pump the breaks. While your past accomplishments may be impressive, it’s important to temper expectations about immediate impact or rapid advancement in your new organization. Don’t take on more than you are capable of handling to try to make a great impression.
Building relationships, understanding company dynamics, and delivering consistent results take time. So, focus on the work assigned to you and work on getting in the flow of working at the new company before you try to expand your portfolio and responsibilities.
4. Not taking enough initiative
While taking on too much too fast can get you in trouble, so can sitting back and resting on your laurels. This could lead to stagnation. It could also appear to others that you lack ambition. Seek out new challenges, take on additional responsibilities, and continuously develop your skills. Staying engaged and motivated will help you maintain your career momentum.
5. Overlooking the onboarding process
Even experienced professionals can benefit from a structured onboarding process. It provides valuable insights into the company, its people, and its processes. Actively participate in onboarding activities to build relationships and gain essential knowledge. Avoid treating it like “busy work”.
7. Not embracing company culture from day one
Every organization has its own culture, hierarchy, and communication styles. Take the time to observe and understand these dynamics. Do your best to integrate into the culture. Avoid imposing your previous company’s way of doing things without considering the new environment.
8. Not building strong relationships
Networking is essential at all career stages, especially when you are new at a company. Sure you may be busy, but there is always time to build new connections. Invest time in building relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry peers. A strong professional network can provide support, opportunities, and valuable insights. So, make an effort to join the group, join clubs, and socialize with colleagues when opportunities arise.
9. Not seeking feedback from your manager on your progress
Knowing how you are acclimating is important to know. The only way to know for sure is to ask. Feedback is crucial for enhancing your skills, recognizing your strengths and weaknesses, and aligning your goals with your manager’s expectations. It also plays a key role in building trust. Regularly ask for feedback and act based on what you learn.
10. Not being open to change
Things will be different at a new organization and you need to be willing to change your ways to adapt. Be open to new ideas, technologies, and processes. Demonstrate a willingness to adapt and learn. Resistance to change can hinder your ability to contribute effectively and grow within the organization.
By being mindful of these potential pitfalls, experienced professionals can make a smooth and mistake-free transition into new roles and achieve long-term success.
What Are The Top Concerns People Have About Starting A New Job?
Starting a new job comes with a lot of unanswered questions – lots of them. Here are some common questions we receive from job seekers about starting a new job.
Is it normal to make a lot of mistakes when starting a new job?
Absolutely. Making mistakes is part of the learning curve with every new job. So, don’t get caught up worrying about making a mistake. It’ll happen. The important thing is to learn from these mistakes and improve your performance over time as you adjust to your new role.
Is it normal to struggle when starting a new job?
Lots of people struggle when starting a new job – and for many different reasons. Some are anxious. Others are not good with change and some have difficulty breaking old habits and doing things differently. You are not going to be an expert at your new job on day one. It will take some time to settle in and feel comfortable.
What is the hardest thing about starting a new job?
The most challenging thing about new jobs can vary greatly from person to person. But, one thing that is the most difficult is working with a new group of people. It can take time (and effort) to acclimate to a new group of people. Trying to connect with your coworkers on a personal and professional level can help you feel more comfortable.
How long does it take to feel settled in a new job?
How long it takes a person to settle in depends on the job. More senior or advanced positions will take longer than, for example, an entry-level position. For some people, it could take a few weeks, while for others it could take months or even a year to fully ramp up.
A Final Word About Making Mistakes When Starting A New Job
Starting a new job can feel daunting. When you take the time to understand the office dynamics and culture and build relationships with your new colleagues, you’ll be well-positioned to show what you are capable of achieving.
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