It can be challenging to adjust to new cultural standards and expectations while maintaining your sense of self. Here are some pointers for easing the transition.
1) Get as much information as you can in advance about your new environment. If you’re starting a new work, read the annual reports, brochures, magazine articles, and any other published materials you can locate. Find out the names of the CEOs, board members, and key stakeholders who hold positions of leadership. Get acquainted with the organization’s declared values and vocabulary.
2) Select the top three traits you want to be recognized for. For instance, you might wish to be recognized for being positive, diligent, and ambitious. Or perhaps you’d rather be recognized for your poise, consideration, and attention to detail. A fundamental tenet of “personal branding” is this. Knowing your top three strengths can help you build a solid foundation from the start.
3)Be courteous to everyone. It’s possible that the individual you shove aside will end up sitting next to you. You may one day be your boss, so stop ignoring the receptionist right now. You will receive valuable benefits if you are courteous.
4) If no one invites you to lunch on your first day at a new job, ask someone for recommendations on where to eat instead. Your new coworkers might be unsure of you, just as you might be unsure of them. Or perhaps they no longer remember what it’s like to be the new kid on the block. Warmth and encouragement can result from a gentle reminder that you don’t know where you are (and maybe even a friend for lunch!).
5) Pay attention for chances to connect, then provide pertinent facts about yourself. Let folks know if football is mentioned and that you have season tickets. If making cookies is the talk at the water cooler and you have a good chocolate chip recipe, share it (better yet, bake some and bring them in). Don’t wait till someone asks you about yourself. Your task is to build a rapport.
6) Don’t be sensitive in the first few weeks. Most of us are constantly on the lookout for slights and other personal infractions. Give individuals the benefit of the doubt instead. They don’t know you well enough to despise you, and they are likely far too preoccupied with their own lives to give you much thought nonetheless.
7) Speak up if someone says something you find too offensive to ignore. Open a line of communication with that person and let them know you are worried. But keep in mind that you’ve probably said a few insensitive things too, so maintain your composure and keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to give others the benefit of the doubt.
8) Make an effort to speak loudly enough to be heard in your new surroundings. Staying silent might easily set you apart if the group is made up of rowdy, loud people. A loud voice, on the other hand, could irritate someone if it tends to be more hushed. According to studies, people respond better to other people who speak at a volume that is similar to their own.
9) Venture out and explore if the shift entails relocating to a new city, state, or nation. You’ll feel more at ease the more familiar you are with the area.
10) Take care of yourself since transitions are hard. Rest well, eat healthfully, and exercise regularly. It’s not a good idea to have a midday sugar crash or to be sleep deprived right now. You want to be awake, rested, and prepared.
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Writer
Fahima Akter
Content Writing Intern
YSSE