Navigating the workplace as a newbie

Adulting is full of scary experiences. From one level to the other, you keep coming across things that seem easy but are more complicated than you thought. One minute you’re in school, and the next, real life hits you as a graduate. Now you have to find a job and navigate a workplace that’s a completely different environment from what you were previously used to.

As someone who has struggled with being the newbie on the block, I know how this feeling takes a toll on anyone. I’ve been in this boat, and it can be a scary experience. I’ve learned some vital lessons along the way that you’ll find helpful. So, I’ll be sharing some ways you can overcome this overwhelming feeling and become a rockstar in the workplace.

Be Open-minded.

My first experience as a workplace newbie dates back to 2012. I had to undergo mandatory industrial training and was lucky to get an offer from a church member. Of course, I was super gassed about resuming at this place, but my expectation was far from the reality on the ground. I thought everyone would be extra friendly, especially as I was new to the team, but that didn’t happen. In my head, it seemed almost everyone was against me, and it was tough.

One thing I learned before leaving this place was that I should be more open-minded as a newbie in a new work environment. By having an open mind and handling things as they come, you prepare yourself for some unexpected things you might encounter.

Being open-minded also means acknowledging that you do not know it all. There’s a lot that you can potentially learn, and you must be ready for it. Just stay prepared for anything.

Be Observant.?

The next lesson I learned was to be observant. If you are not attentive, you’ll miss out on the best ways to get along with your teammates, which can kill your excitement.?Asides from general introductions, you need to connect deeper with your teammates. For example, how does this person communicate? Do they go straight to the point or through the friendly and jovial route? You can typically get such information from your first interaction with such a person.?

Imagine your line manager loves going straight to the point. But because you’re not observant, you’re making a presentation to this person and using many story illustrations. You’ll lose your manager’s attention, and the manager may get a wrong perception of you.?Being observant is extremely important in any work environment.?

Ask Questions!?

There is a saying that anyone who asks questions will not miss their way. Asking questions should be part of your itinerary as a newbie if you want the best workplace experience.? Realise that no one expects you to know everything when you’re just starting out. Even if you think it’s silly, go ahead and ask! The dangers of not knowing something are worse than your fear of asking.

Refusing to ask questions can get in the way of a task or responsibility you’re meant to accomplish. Asking questions will help you better understand your role and responsibility and give you clarity.

Get a Mentor.

Choosing a mentor is important because they can give you insight based on their personal experiences, which can be incredibly valuable. A suitable mentor is usually someone who has advanced beyond your career level, either within your field or sometimes out of it entirely.

Choosing a mentor outside the organisation you work with is best. You can share ideas with your mentor, who will guide you in navigating the workplace and provide solutions to anything confusing.

Put in the Work.?

Most importantly, you need to put in the work as a newbie in any workplace. Remember the reason why you wanted to get the job. Now that you’ve gotten it, you shouldn’t slack. Instead, focus on delivering and making an impact. You may not realise it, but people are watching you, and you can only excel when you deliver efficiently. It is why you have to be passionate about what you do.?

When I started as a product management intern at Moniepoint Group , after years of working in Marketing at different companies, things were so fast-paced. From day 1, it felt like I had been there for a year already.?Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I poised myself to put in the work. Being an intern didn’t stop me from wanting to be impactful, and it has helped me in the role.?

So, always think of ways you can do things differently, how you can do impactful work, how your work can improve the organisation, etc. Being a newbie in any organisation doesn’t mean you should limit yourself.?

As you navigate the new experience of finding your feet for the first time in the workplace, remember to be open-minded and observant. Ask questions, and put in the work required to be seen as a vital team member. If it feels like you’re still struggling, do not hesitate to get a mentor and ask for help. You’ve got this!

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