Starting a new job can be tough. You might need to shake off the new job jitters. You have to navigate a new workplace, introduce yourself to coworkers, and establish rapport.
But the process can be difficult too. There’s the whole job search itself, which plays out differently when you’re currently employed. You must prepare for job interviews and get over the nervousness. Maybe you’re still thinking if you need a new job; after all, it’s daunting to navigate through it unprepared.
Fret not. We’ve compiled practical tips, tricks, and general information that are useful for those newly hired, both newcomers to the workforce and veterans looking to switch jobs. Read on.
The Warning Signs: When to Look for a New Job
Sometimes, your current job isn’t working out for you. It may not be satisfying anymore, you feel you’re growing stagnant, or it’s harming your health. Take note of these signs below. If you’re experiencing them, you may need to start your job search.
1. It’s stressing you out and affecting your health.
Being healthy is important for your wellbeing and work performance. When you don’t feel well, it negatively affects your ability to work properly. This applies to both physical and mental health. A bad work environment may stress you out, which will impact your health.
One of the most common ways stress affects your health is through disrupting your sleep cycle. Stress negatively affects the length and quality of your sleep; the more stressed you are, the worse your sleep will be. And it goes downhill from there. According to the American Psychological Association, people report feeling more stressed when they get poor quality sleep, creating a vicious cycle of stress and poor sleep worsening each other’s effects.
Your sleep schedule may also be affected if you work on your assigned tasks late into the night. Poor sleep and stress could lead to you getting sick more often and for longer. Sleep deprivation and stress have been shown to affect your immune system and even your long-term health for the worse. The body’s ability to fight off germs and foreign substances is decreased when you experience one or both of these conditions.
A bad work environment may be so stressful that it affects your mental health to the point that you feel yourself needing to adopt harmful (and possibly addictive) coping mechanisms. If your job is making you consume too much alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs, you should probably start looking for a new job.
2. Your satisfaction is taking a hit.
Sometimes, your current job is just not mentally stimulating anymore. You might want a job that’s more challenging, where you have the chance to learn new skills. It’s natural to feel this way, especially if you want to move up the corporate ladder or if you simply like learning.
Other times, you just don’t feel like you want to work for the company you’re currently working with. If you’re getting in trouble with your coworkers and management more often, then maybe it’s a sign to move on to greener pastures.
3. You find yourself not working or wishing you weren’t working.
Instead of doing your tasks, you may find yourself browsing the internet on company time. Maybe you’ve noticed you’re starting to count down the hours left until work ends, or even wishing that you were somewhere else, like on vacation or enjoying retirement. If you’re guilty of doing the above, then it’s likely time for you to start setting up job alerts.
4. You’re already thinking of looking for a new job.
This is the nail in the coffin. If you’ve already thought about looking for a new job, especially when you’ve done so more than once, then you’ve likely already made up your mind.
The Search: Job Hunting While Employed
Remember these tips if you’re going to start looking for a job while currently employed. By following these tips, you’ll ensure your search goes smoothly and without drama.
1. Be discreet.
Don’t let anyone from your workplace know you’re looking for a new job, especially your boss. That means not advertising your job search on social media. If you’re updating your LinkedIn profile—which you should do often, even when you’re not currently seeking employment—don’t state that you’re looking for a job; your current boss may be following you.
At work, don’t use the company internet connection to conduct your job search, because most workplaces monitor their employees’ browsing activity. Don’t do anything out of the ordinary, because it may tip off your current employer that you may be planning to leave the company soon. Lastly, don’t tell your coworkers that you’re looking for a new job, no matter how much you trust them. It might reach your boss’ ears on accident.
So, what should you do to keep your job search a secret? When you’re applying for a new job, inform your potential employer to keep it confidential. You should also schedule interviews outside of your work hours, or you could use your remaining leaves to accommodate interviews. Lastly, give different references when applying to a new job; don’t put your current employer or coworker as a reference.
2. Be professional.
Even if you might leave your current employer soon, strive to be professional with them while you’re still employed.
Work as diligently as you did before. Don’t bite the hand that feeds you; you’ll only burn the same bridges that you might need in the future.
A surefire way to appear unprofessional and to burn bridges is badmouthing your current company. Don’t do it. Your actions could cost you a new job, too, if potential employers catch wind of your badmouthing. No one wants an employee that will do the company’s name dirty.
Lastly, aside from potentially exposing yourself to people finding out about your job search, using company resources to look for a new job is just plain unprofessional. You can do that at home.
3. Be honest.
Tell the truth when your current employer asks about your resignation. Your boss will probably understand your reasons for leaving. You’ll leave on better terms with your former boss. You must also be graceful when you resign.
Related Read: Job Search Tips That Would Work for Every Job Hunt Scenario
The Interview: How to Prepare for It
So, you’ve landed an interview. How do you prepare? Don’t worry because we have some tips that will surely help you prepare for your interview.
1. Research.
Find out the company’s values and goals. You want to appear like you’re a good fit for the company. Besides, your interviewer might quiz you about the company to check your interest. This also applies for the position you’re applying to. Don’t make it seem like you’re clueless about what you’re getting into.
By researching the company and the position you applied for, you’re also preparing answers to possible questions the interviewer may ask you.
2. Anticipate what questions they might ask you.
Jot down questions you think the interviewer might ask you. You could also ask friends already working for the company or in similar positions about how their interviews went for them and what questions the interviewer asked them. This way, you can rehearse your answers. When you rehearse, it’s better to remember the main idea instead of whole sentences. You might appear scripted otherwise.
3. Be your best self.
The day before the interview, make sure that you sleep well; your mind must be in top shape. You should also eat a good, filling meal that won’t upset your stomach before leaving. Wear something professional; remember, you’re dressing to impress.
4. Send a thank-you note.
After the interview, prepare a thank-you note to send through email. You’ll stand out from your fellow applicants by showing your commitment, dedication, and interest in the position. It serves as a subtle follow-up, too.
Related Read: Interview Coaching Tips to Help You Land Your Dream Job
The First Week: How to Score a Terrific First Impression
You’re hired. Congratulations! Strive to make a good first impression Follow these tips to start off your new job on the right foot.
1. Show your commitment to company growth and success.
Learn as much as you can about your new job and workplace. You’ll better understand your role and, in turn, likely do it better and impress your boss. Take initiative; volunteer to help with tasks, and establish yourself as a team player. Employers want dedicated employees who will assist them in making the company prosper.
2. Socialize with your coworkers.
Make an effort to introduce yourself to everyone; you’ll be working with these people in the foreseeable future. Don’t be afraid to initiate a get-together either. The sooner you can socialize, the sooner you’ll establish a good relationship with your coworkers. You’ll feel less lonely and accomplish tasks more efficiently as a team.
3. Arrive early or on time.
Being late as a new hire is a bad idea. Don’t make your new boss think they hired someone unprofessional. Remember, you presented yourself as someone dependable during your interview.
The First Months: How to Navigate and Enjoy Your New Job
You’ve made a good first impression. What comes next? If you’re unsure about how to act as a new hire, follow these tips to integrate yourself in the workplace faster.
1. Immerse yourself in the company culture.
Find somebody you can trust to show you the ins and outs of the company. Observe how your new coworkers act and adopt their values to fit in.
2. Get to know your team.
Because teamwork is an integral part of work, you should mingle with your teammates. You’ve probably introduced yourself already, so focus on building rapport with them. Invite them to outings; grab a drink during happy hour or sing a round of karaoke.
3. Showcase your skills and learn eagerly.
Show you’re an asset to the company by working diligently and skillfully. Don’t slack off, especially in the first months. Avoid disappointing your boss; strive to do your best. Don’t forget to pick up new skills as the opportunities present themselves.
Related Read: Ice Breaker Questions: Ideas for Your Meetings and Team Buildings
The Resume: Prepare Before You Start Your Job Hunt
Job hunting is challenging. You may need to decline a few job offers if you’ve changed your mind. But before you start looking for a new job, you must be properly prepared so you’ll entice potential employers.
If you’ve decided to move on to greener pastures and start looking for a new job that fits your wants and needs, update your resume. Best 10 Resume Writers has listed the best resume writing services on the market today that will make your resume shine above the competition and land you that dream job.
