Starting a new job can be daunting - even more so if this is your first job since leaving the military. Taking on new responsibilities, meeting new colleagues, learning a new way of working and being immersed in a different culture can be overwhelming. To help you we've got 5 top tips so you can hit the ground running and make the first 100 days in your new job a real success.
The first day, week and month will be challenging - you have lots of information to process so it is important to try and be as prepared as possible.
Before your first day, go over all the research you did about the job role and the company before your interview. Get to know the culture of your organisation. Your first week is about absorbing a lot of information - take lots of notes! Your new workplace should have a structured onboarding process and you should be introduced to your co-workers and perhaps a mentor, on your first day. But if no such introductions take place, request your manager set up a meet and greet or simply try and grab a coffee or lunch with your co-workers to find out more about them and your new workplace. Ask questions: If you're unsure about some of your responsibilities, a colleague's role, or any query about the business - don't be afraid to ask. Everything is new to you and remember everyone has been in your shoes.
You don't need to go in like a whirlwind and demand to make big changes - but as the weeks go on, it is important to be proactive.
Keep up-to-date with what is going on in your new workplace, make sure you read any newsletters, check the business social media account and read annual reports. Set up a Google alert so it is even easier to stay in the loop. Update your Linkedin profile. Bring in ideas! It's important to get the balance right and not tread on any toes early on - but equally show initiative. The third month is a good time to suggest making any changes (if appropriate to your job role) as you will have gained valuable experience in those first 12 weeks.
Although your employer will set personal targets and review your performance regularly - take ownership of your own personal development.
Subscribe to relevant blogs or websites to keep you up-to-date with any industry news. Identify any training you might need. Join a professional organisation. If the business has an internal military network, get involved. Request a three-month review with your manager - if this is not in place. This will be a great way to find out about your performance and receive feedback. Develop a personal development plan for yourself - this will show great initiative.
Networking is an important part of finding a job - and it will continue to be an important part of making this new job a success.
Just as it is important to establish a strong network of external contacts - don't forget about establishing an internal network within the business. This internal networking starts on day 1. Make sure within your first week, you have a list of who can help you with each individual situation. Take time to further invest in your co-workers and external stakeholders and focus on developing your relationships with them.
The first 100 days can be challenging and will be a huge transition. Don't put too much pressure on yourself, it's natural to get a little frustrated if you want to start making changes immediately - or you may have a few confidence wobbles as you adjust to your new role and responsibilities. But give yourself a break! Those first few months can be quite intense and stressful - but equally you need to remember it is the start of an exciting career.
For more employment advice, visit our news and best practice blog - The Saluting Post.