How to Prepare for Day 1 in a New Job

Starting a new job or role can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, as you experience a roller coaster of emotions about what’s to come next. In this article, I will answer some key questions you may have before starting your new journey in the job you’ve been eagerly waiting for. Additionally, I will share some actionable advice you can use during your first week at the new company to set yourself up for success.

First things first, congratulations on making it to the new job! You’re likely reading this article because you’re starting soon in a new role or are in the phase of a career transition. Let’s begin.

Why is it important to prepare strategically for your new role?

As the saying goes, first impressions are lasting impressions. In the corporate framework, everyone is apprehensive about those around them. Every move and step you take is critically monitored by your colleagues and stakeholders. Your perception sets the tone for your future in your role.

This is why it's important to set the right perception from day one. Once damaged, it is very difficult to change.

Setting a positive perception from day one is crucial as it significantly influences your future in the new role.

How to set the right perception?

1. Assess How You Want to be Acknowledged:

We have our self-image, which plays an important role in how we are perceived. Sometimes it happens automatically through our behaviors, and sometimes we project a certain perception of ourselves through our actions, the way we talk, walk, etc. Choosing the image you want to project is the first critical step.

2. Determine the Seniority of Your Role:

If you are being hired as the head of a function or at a senior level, your journey in terms of perception is somewhat easier since 60 to 70% of the perception is already formed by your senior role. The rest depends on your leadership style, communication skills, and ability to influence others. However, if you are hired at a managerial or individual contributor level, you will need to earn your positive perception by showcasing your skills, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

3. Small Acts of Display:

For example, who do you have lunch with, who is your office buddy, what is your network seniority, how do your colleagues see you, how do you dress for work? These small materialistic hints contribute to your perception. Even if you are a high performer, introverted, and have low social skills, these small things do contribute towards your perception formation.

Now that you understand the importance of perception, let's discuss some other important factors to be mindful of during your first few days at the new job:

1. Identify Your Stakeholders:

Knowing your key stakeholders and learning from them is crucial for success in your role. These key stakeholders will likely be heads of functions if you are in a managerial or above role. Map them well and see how your role links to theirs. Remember, they are the ones who will give feedback on your performance to your line manager, so it is essential to establish your network with them.

2. Get to Know Your Colleagues:

Starting a new role can feel strange and daunting, but your colleagues will help you feel at home. Introduce yourself, learn about their roles and seniority in the company, and find ways to be useful to them. Establish genuine relationships, but keep them professional. Over time, you will likely find one or two good friends.

3. Learn About the Business:

No matter your role, knowledge of the business matters most. Learn about the products and services your company offers, their strengths, weaknesses, brands they manage, and competitors. This knowledge will give you credibility and contextual information.

4. Adapt to the Company Culture:

Being a cultural fit is crucial for success. Cultural fit is assessed during the interview process, so you know it’s important. People should see you resonate with the company culture. Observe your colleagues and leaders, learn about the company’s core values, and understand how they link to your performance and behaviors. Demonstrate these core values through your actions and highlight them during reviews and assessments.

Understanding and adapting to the company's culture and business operations will enhance your credibility and integration into the team.

5. Identify Key Expectations and Learn Your Manager’s Working Style:

Have a conversation with your line manager to learn their working and leadership style. Some leaders delegate, while others are involved in day-to-day tasks. Knowing these details will help you adjust your working style. Find out the key deliverables your manager expects over the next few months and work hard on them, even if your manager forgets about them. Prepare regular updates on key projects and deliverables. Once you have established a trusted working relationship with your manager, the rest of the journey will be smoother.

These suggestions will help you start strong in your new job. Use a combination of your learning from past roles and mistakes, and form a strategy for success in your new role. ?All the best. Do not hesitate to contact me if you need HR consulting or talk to HR advisor one on one :)

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