Congratulations! You’ve been offered a new job – your spirits are high and the champagne is about to be popped, ready to celebrate. This is an exciting whirlwind of a time for anyone in the workforce.
Before you can dive into your new job though, there are a few important things you’ll need to take care of to ensure a smooth transition and get off on the right foot.
Check Out the Employment Contract
Before putting pen to paper, you’ll want to be absolutely certain of the terms you’re agreeing to. For that extra security, HKM lawyers in Seattle will be able to help you run through your employment contract and clue you up on exactly what’s going on.
When you know what’s going on in there, you can be sure of your remuneration package, any benefits you get, your job requirements, working hours, leave, travel expectations and other important info.
Don’t Burn Bridges
When you’re leaving an old job, especially one that might have been a little toxic or you were treated unfairly, you might feel tempted to have the final word and leave with a flourish, so to speak.
Making snide comments, or leaving on bad terms with your employer or any colleagues will only be detrimental to you and your future career. Resist the temptation to cause a scene, and leave respectfully and holding onto your dignity.
Meet the Team
Getting to know the new team you’ll be working with is an important part of starting a new job. These are people you’ll be sharing much of your day with going forward, and figuring out a new work dynamic can take some time.
Ask your new employer to be introduced to the team and don’t feel afraid to ask to be assigned a mentor – someone you can turn to for all your questions while you’re adjusting and adapting to your new role.
Take Some Time
If at all possible, try to take a few days for yourself in between finishing up at your old job and starting your new one. This transition period can be chaotic and very stressful – taking a few days to rest and gather yourself before diving into a new position could do you the world of good.
This time off can be used to catch up on sleep and really rest, but it can also be used to read up on your new company, prepare any questions you might have, deal with the admin of starting at a new company, purchase new work attire if needed, and other preparatory tasks.
Ask Questions
When you first start out, you might want to exude confidence and show off your competence and skills – but the fact of the matter is that you’re going to need help. Keep in mind that your employer and colleagues will expect this, so don’t shy away from it!
Ask as many questions as you need to in order to get comfortable with your role. The more help you receive early on, the faster you’ll learn and get into the swing of things.
