Confession time: When starting a new job, I’ve often dived in headfirst, putting pressure on myself to prove my worth from day one. I’ve overlooked the first few months, which are actually perfect for observing, learning and building connections. So, this time, I’m trying to do things differently (famous last words, right?).
I’ve shared content that inspired me to listen more, step out of my comfort zone, and keep looking for simple solutions to make the days a wee bit easier. Reminding myself that sometimes, value comes from what we don’t do as much as what we do.
Read: Perspectives A Guide for Onboarding into a New Role, Deb Liu
Keeping it simple, Deb Liu offers six practical lessons from her experience of starting new roles. She focuses on listening first, seeking alignment and clarity and practicing servant leadership, prioritising building trust with your team and supporting longer term gains.
Whilst in observation mode, lesson 4 - Approach learning with curiosity is a great reminder on the importance of having an open mind to the current ways of working, processes and team. Crucially, avoid the instinct to judge and instead focus on asking questions to find out more.
So Wat action? Ask Listening Tour Five Questions to grow an understanding, hear different perspectives and build a well-round view on the organisation you’ve joined:
What is working well?
What is not working?
What should we do that we aren’t doing today?
What would you do if you were in my shoes?
What should I learn about the organisation that will be helpful to me in my role?
Watched: A League of their Own (ALOTO) Road Trip: Mexico Sky Max
I’ve been watching ALOTO for years as my go-to escapism TV. It’s a panel show that features a perfect mix of sports stars and comedians. The latest season has them on tour in Mexico, taking on fun challenges outside their comfort zones, competing to win the show.
Just like starting a new role, this show is a great reminder of what you can achieve when you step out of your comfort zone. Embracing it can help you learn new skills, conquer fears, and build life-long connections.
So Wat action? Don’t pressure yourself to know everything from Day 1. It's normal to feel silly for not knowing answers or to experience imposter syndrome. Feel the fear and ask questions anyway—you'll learn faster and show your new team you’re eager to learn. If it feels too daunting, jot down questions and follow-up one-on-one. It’s less intimidating and helps build connections.
Heard: Squiggly Careers: #34 How to be brilliant in a new job
Sarah and Helen are my go-to for career advice. They blend theory with practical tips and make complex situations easy to understand at any career stage.
An oldie but a goodie, in this episode they focus on excelling in your new role, covering five key areas: Context, Clarity, Relationships, Brand, and Success. They tackle issues like not knowing acronyms and sharing your values, offering comforting reminders that you’re not alone and can take small steps to ease the transition.
So Wat action? Embrace the discovery phase of your new role. Observe how things operate, identify where you can add value, and don’t rush. Your fresh perspective is invaluable so use it to your team’s advantage.
Wore: Eat, Sleep, 5 Tops on Repeat
I needed a way to simplify my mornings. I often waste time overthinking my outfit, pulling out everything in my wardrobe, only to end up wearing the same thing as the day before.
I didn't want to go full Steve Jobs and wear the same top every day. I love different styles and need to mix things up depending on what I’m doing or who I’m meeting.
So Wat action? Each Sunday, I picked 5 tops from my wardrobe that are perfect for my workweek and gave them their own spot. Now, my choices are refined, getting dressed is quicker and gives forgotten clothes a new life. Win-win!
Stay tuned for more insights, tips & inspiration. And follow to see if I can really listen and observe for 90 days…