I think one of the first things that must be clear is what the expectations of the new job or position is. Too often we make assumptions that everyone is on the same page and clearly understands but every supervisor and organization is different. Communication is key not only in the first days, but during the entire transition. One thing that has worked for me is having at least weekly (if not more often) short meetings to answer questions, re-iterate the expectations, etc. I also feel that it is important up front to spend some time with the new individuals to make sure they understand the organization, its mission, values, etc. Culture is something that is also different between organizations so it is important that new people start to understand the culture.
From a personal standpoint, I have transitioned to several new roles and one of the things that I tried to do in addition to the above is learn as much as I can about the role or position, the new responsibilities, etc. I am inquisitive and ask a lot of questions of a lot of different people to understand as much as I can as quickly as I can. It is important to gain a respect and strong working relationship with those around you as you can’t do things alone or in a vacuum.
2. What practical systems/strategies were you or that individual intentional about that was effective in helping make the most of the transition into the new environment? In other words, what practices worked?
Asking questions, understanding expectations, laying out requirements, earning respect, and gaining knowledge are some of them.
3. What advice would you give someone entering a new job environment concerning obstacles/pitfalls to avoid?
I would encourage them to avoid the extremes….first, don’t try to change everything to the way it was where you came from or the way that you think it should be. Take the time to understand the organization and culture and learn as much as you can. While many concepts and strategies can work in many different environments, one can’t assume that is always the case. Take at least a little time to learn and earn…learn what you can and earn the respect of those around you.
The second extreme to avoid is accepting that the way things were is the way they should stay. I know this sounds like I am talking out of both sides of my mouth but my point is to ignore the extremes. They brought a new person in because the want new ideas and leadership, but it also needs to be done in a way that the organization can accept and grow from. Respect is something that is earned, not granted so the new person needs to approach it this way. When I took a new position about 13 years ago that was totally in a new area for me, I started by questioning a lot of what was considered to be basic principles. Many times the answers to my questions were along the lines of “that’s the way we have always done it”….or, “the industry has done this for years”. My simple response to that was if they can’t justify why then perhaps that was no longer the best approach. Many of these principles we ended up adjusting or changing.
4. Name and explain 3 values a person in transition should focus on in their first 120 days in a new employment situation?
1. Integrity – I know this sounds really obvious, but I believe it is important for the new person to establish their core values with those they are working with. In a church situation, maybe this goes without saying but in business, some people will come in thinking they need to act like they know everything. Personally, I appreciate the person who recognizes their strengths AND their weaknesses. We all have weaknesses and I garner much more respect for those that are willing to admit theirs so that I can adjust my expectations and “fill in” around them. Hopefully, this has been vetted in the interviewing process but it’s good to get confirmation.
2. Hard Work – maybe this is a personal thing for me, but I always appreciate a person coming in who is energized and willing to do what it takes to get the job done. There are many people out there who do what it takes to get by, but don’t give the extra effort. To me, this not only hurts the organization but it also has an impact on those around them, especially if they are in a leadership role. People do notice and they will respond accordingly.
3. Communicate – there is no replacement in an organization for good communication. Again, I think a lot of times people assume that things are understood when in fact they may not be. Also, communication works “two ways”. And, quite frankly, I think it feeds on itself. If one person communicates I think the others in the organization will do the same.
5. What type of professional and personal expectations should a quality employee put on themselves entering a new employment situation?
Be realistic on what you can expect to change in the first 120 days or so. That doesn’t mean to expect very little….in fact, to the contrary, you should expect a lot. New people coming into an organization should be extremely energized. Also, don’t expect that everything is going to go without a bump or two in the road. The new person is in a new, unfamiliar environment and will no doubt create a few waves with the things they are trying to accomplish. That’s okay, but they should expect there to potentially be a bump or two along the way. There is a quote that I like that says, “If you find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t go anywhere”. I have always drawn the parallel of this to the narrow and wide gates that Jesus talked about.
From a personal standpoint, be prepared to work harder than you ever have. You are the one in a new situation and you should expect that it will take extra effort up front to accomplish what you are wanting to accomplish.
6. Any final thoughts you have concerning this topic?
I would just emphasize that to me, I appreciate a person’s hard work and attitude. In many respects, I would take someone with a good, strong work ethic and a great attitude any day over the person that has all the tools but a poor work ethic and attitude. Maybe part of my passion for these kind of people comes from my upbringing in a Mennonite family that stressed hard work, but in my opinion most other things can be taught.
I will share one other quote with you as I look at people coming in who are willing to ask the questions, do what it takes, and not afraid to “push the envelope” a little bit.
“Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty & well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out and loudly proclaiming…”Wow! What a ride!”
- Author Unknown
