Being the new kid on the block is not always easy, but at some point in time, we have all been there. When coming into a role with a new company, a new hire’s future success is dependent on their ability to hit the ground running. It very much up to you as a manager or business owner to help their transition via onboarding process, training, etc.; however there are important steps that your new associate should be taking as well, in order to get up to speed.
While a new hire may initially be nervous to jump in and be themselves, the quicker they do it, the shorter the transition period will be. Here are some ways to help make that transition smoother. Be sure to share these ideas with new hires as they are brought on board.
Integrate them: When starting at a new company, a new hire will need to integrate with the organization. Every company culture has different values and norms, and a new hire will need to pay attention to and engage with the personality of the company as well as their new colleagues. Help new hires and encourage them to invest time getting to know the people around them by perhaps sharing a break with a coworker, or going out to lunch with team members. They shouldn’t be afraid to let their personality shine through.
Listen to understand: We all want to prove ourselves right away and share our knowledge. In today’s fast-paced world, we often listen to respond instead of listening to understand. Showing your co-workers that you value their insight is a quick way to earn respect. Likewise, it will help both the new hire learn their role and understand the nuisances of your organization while you learn more about them.
Ask questions: Although many of the skills in a new hire’s toolbox may have helped them land your position, they may not all be directly transferable in the new environment. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a learner – so encourage them to ask questions and not to fear the statement “I don’t know.” Anticipate that there will be a learning curve involved and then work to meet it with a determined, growth mind-set, and be sure to provide guidance or assistance when they need it.
Provide a mentor: When a new hire has questions, but they do not want to go directly to the top of the food chain, where do they turn? Pairing a new hire with a peer mentor in a new organization can be extremely beneficial. Seek out a capable coworker that can provide the new hire with guidance, needed assistance and direction. Look for someone who will show them the ropes and provide valuable feedback to help them succeed in the long term. The mentor should have insight into the nomenclature of the company and how he or she might respond in different situations. Having a mentor and a sounding board will be vital to a new hire’s success.
Encourage a new perspective: Embrace the outsider’s perspective that a new hire provides. The ideas that they can share have not been influenced by past successes and challenges that your team may have experienced. Of course, we all know that not every idea is a home run, but there is value in bringing fresh ideas and being creative. Don’t be afraid to encourage a new hire to share their thoughts with your colleagues.
Matt Ashlock is an Online Education Specialist for PSA Security Network. Request more info about PSA at www.securityinfowatch.com/10214742.
