The First Four Weeks On The Job

October 1st I started a new job, a new adventure :-) I don’t know about you, but for me, the first 4 weeks in a new job are super exciting as well as exhausting. It’s kind of like the first couple of weeks in a new house, or with a new boyfriend/girlfriend. Or like joining a new game; a game you’ve never played before.

Week 1 - observing
You are sitting on a bench, watching the game in front of you, trying to make sense of it, imagining yourself being in it, and observing the players as well as the dynamic of the team. You are in a safe position allowing you to tune up all your senses and that’s what you should do – watch and listen without assumptions. Don’t compare or categorize based on your past experiences. Forget the past and soak it all in.

Week 2 - visiting
They let you step on the field. Wow, how thrilling and scary as well! Acknowledge the difference of perspectives between sitting on a bench and now being in the game and possibly observed by others. No more hiding. You are a part of a team, but not quite yet. Walk around, feel the ground, and watch the players up close. There are things you couldn’t see from the bench. Your goal should be to become a part of the environment – let others see you, be available, but don’t disturb their rhythm.

Week 3 – taking action
The time came for you to touch the ball. Look for an opportunity to pass the ball. Your team may be hesitant to pass it to you at first, but keep asking for it. Let them know you are ready to try it out and being a part of their success. Beware of taking the ball and running with it in your own way (the way that might have worked on the previous team). Be sensitive to the needs of your teammates. Your goal is building trust, not scoring goals.

Week 4 – blending in
Let them know about you. Show them what you are really good at and how they can get the most out of you. Try suggest actions if you have a sense they are open to it. Let it go if they are not. Your goal is to become an obvious part of the team – to the team members as well as to the outside observers.

The first four weeks are about immersing yourself in a new environment. Avoid your temptations to criticize how they operate, or to be a part of gossiping. Instead, learn about why they do things the way they do them. Be curious, non-judgmental, and patient. Become someone they want to have around and very soon the time will come when they’ll seek your input.

And if the first four weeks made you realize this is not the game you want to play, say thanks and move on. No harm done.