Many of us have experienced the feeling of utter relief and
happiness when after a period of job hunting we are finally offered a position.
For many of us, in our desperation for a new position we choose to ignore the
red flags our potential employers may be holding up. When offered a new
position, it is our natural inclination to accept. Take a step back for just a
moment and remind yourself that most of our waking lives are spent at work.
Given this, just like you would before investing in a new car or house, we
should read the fine print of our work contracts and do some research before
signing on the dotted line!
First thing first- ask questions! You are completely entitled
to ask important questions such as “what is a typical workday like?” or “do you
see any major strategy changes or reporting relationship changes in the near
future” and “will I be expected to communicate after hours and on weekends?”
It is for your own benefit to understand what is expected of
you before taking a new position. Some people don’t mind working after hours or
on weekends and there has been a recent shift from typical ‘nine to five’ work
to more flexible working arrangements (and longer hours in some cases!) If you
are someone who likes to leave the office at 5pm on the dot, or if you have
outside work commitments such as looking after children or parents then be up
front with this information so your boss is aware can subsequently make more
informed decisions.
Ask how you will meet your new colleagues and work team. This
is particularly important if you are taking on a new position as a manager. Establishing
rapport with your team is essential to your success in your new position and
will make yourself and team members feel more comfortable with the change! It
doesn’t need to be an extravagant event; a simple meeting in the conference room
over coffee and some biscuits will suffice!
Understand the short-term and long term priorities of the
position. By the time you have accepted the job offer, you should be able to
set strategic goals to achieve within the first 30 days, as well as the next
three months. Once you have an understanding of the high priority tasks and
projects, have a conversation with your boss to ensure you are on the right
track and get stuck into it! Demonstrating that you have the ability to be organised
and strategic and showing that you are committed to producing work aligned with
the objectives of your organisation is really important when you are just starting
off in a new position.
Make sure all the details are covered. This is your stop and
think moment! Sit down with a cup of tea and go over in detail your offer
letter, contract and other information regarding your salary, bonus eligibility,
benefits and any other significant terms related to your employment. This is
the perfect time to ask any questions or clarify information. Or if you are
feeling very brave- negotiate your terms!
Last but not least… Ensure your new position meets your
needs. Is there room to grow professionally? Will you be eligible for
promotions? You do not want to take on a job only to realise that it is
stagnant position.
Ultimately, by researching, asking intelligent questions and
being curious about your new position you will gain the confidence required
when choosing to accept or decline your new position. If you do sign the dotted
line- fantastic! You will feel more prepared and understand your working
environment to a greater extent which will relieve those first day nerves.
If
you choose to decline- well done! You
have clearly taken the time to re-assess your fit within the organisation and
by doing the research you have given yourself another fantastic opportunity to
find a job that suits your needs and career aspirations!
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