How to adjust to a new job

Whether you have just graduated from college or landed a new position, adjusting to a new job can be a difficult process. No one is going to tell you what to expect and you will not fully understand the company culture until you are immersed in it. If you are feeling nervous about adjusting to a new position, there are a few steps you can take to make the process easier.

Ask meaningful questions

If you are feeling lost in the first few weeks of your new job, take the time to make a mental list of meaningful questions to ask your manager. Research shows that new hires perform better if they ask meaningful questions that help them learn their position better. Before asking just any question that may be distracting, prioritize the information you need. Instead of bombarding your manager with a list of questions after a busy lunch meeting, ask a few questions that will help you understand the task you need to complete. If you want to delve deeper into questions about the company’s culture or work expectations, ask your boss out for lunch or coffee.

Understand more about the company culture

Meshing with the company’s culture is critical to building a successful career at any company. For example, about 66 percent of adult employees recognize the importance of adapting to the company’s environment, according to the Randstad Work Watch Survey. To better understand this aspect of the job, stay attentive in meetings as well as outside conversations. By making an effort to get to know your coworkers, you will understand more about what the company is like and the expectations. However, if you blatantly disagree with the company culture or have trouble adapting, it may be time to look for employment elsewhere. The first 90 days at any job are important to discerning whether you are a right fit for the company or not.

Be humble

This is probably the most important tip because if you are humble and hardworking, you are more likely to attract positive energy and new opportunities. Even if you dislike the job that you are doing, take the time to thank people for showing you the ropes. Never take credit for work you haven’t done and listen more than you speak. Although you may think you have the experience to do your job perfectly, you must keep an open mind.

Taking these three tips into consideration, you’re sure to set yourself up for success when it matters the most. Good luck!