February 15th 2024.
Dear Reader,
I received your question about navigating a new job with the intention of making a good impression while also avoiding burnout. Congratulations on your new job! Starting a new job can be both exciting and overwhelming. It's natural to want to give your best to the organization, but it's also important to find a balance and not overdo it.
Let me share a personal story with you. I remember when I started a new job and ended up working late into the night, even after everyone had gone home. I wanted to show my dedication by working longer hours, but it reached a point where even the cleaning crew left before me. I thought my late hours were a sign of my commitment to the job, but one evening, a senior member of the executive team stopped by my cubicle and said something that stuck with me.
He warned me to be careful about the story I was creating. He explained that people would start to expect me to work late every day. This made me realize the importance of setting boundaries. It's important to teach others how we want to be treated, especially when starting a new job. Things like how late we work, how much work we take on, and not speaking up when things are not going well can all add up and create a certain expectation.
Setting clear expectations from the beginning is crucial. When you meet with your manager for the first time, bring your resume and the same energy you had during the interview. Use this opportunity to discuss performance objectives and expectations. Reiterate your passion for the role, communicate your preferred style of communication, and find out about the decision-making process within the company. Ask any questions you have about the role and clarify any expectations that may not be clear. You should also share your own work performance objectives and expectations with your manager.
You can say something like, "In order for me to be the most successful member of the team, I would like to understand your expectations and share what helps me be productive and meet those goals." It's also important to discuss your schedule and any accommodations you may need to fulfill your commitments.
If you struggle with staying focused or get nervous during conversations, try using a script. Write down some bullet points to keep the conversation on track. Take notes during the meeting, ask questions to ensure understanding, and send a summary of the discussion to your manager afterwards. Make sure to cover all the topics you wanted to discuss before ending the conversation.
In addition, consider setting up regular one-on-one meetings with your manager to ensure you are on track both in terms of performance and career growth. It's important to remember that you are in charge of your career, and your manager is there to guide you. You know where you want to go, so don't be afraid to communicate your goals and aspirations.
Congratulations again on your new job! You are capable and will do great. If you have any further questions about career or leadership, please don't hesitate to ask. As your Fairygodmentor®, I am here to support and guide you. I am a leadership coach at Crawford Leadership Strategies, where I help individuals grow and develop as leaders. I also host a podcast called Career View Mirror® and hold certifications in HR, DISC, and Birkman Assessments. I am a member of SHRM, the National Black MBA Association, and a legislative advocate for NAAF. My career advice has been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, Essence, Newsweek, and many other publications.
Best of luck in your new job!
Sincerely,
Joyel Crawford
Your Fairygodmentor® at Crawford Leadership Strategies
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