“Everyone has a wobble when they start a new job”
This was some of the best advice I have ever been given. I have lost count of the number of times it has been helpful to the candidates I have placed.
Starting a new job is a rollercoaster, whether it is your first position or your 10th. In the interview you were sold the dream. The chance to meet new people, receive training, learn new things, have responsibility…it’s all really exciting.
But..it’s also healthy to have a reality check, amongst all the excitement.
- At some point, you will have a bad day
- Something will frustrate you
It could be an issue with your computer; a colleague you don’t like; a setback with a project; the fridge being out of milk; a problem client; getting stuck in traffic on the way in. Whatever it is, something will be the catalyst for thinking, “DID I MAKE A MISTAKE?”.
Recognise that this a natural thing. It happens. No matter how excited you may be about your new job, it will not be PERFECT.
A lot of people start a new role, encounter “the wobble” and leave again. Sometimes leaving IS the right decision, but often I would advise people to take a deep breath, consider whether it is JUST a wobble, and work with it.
When I started in my job, I had six (yes SIX) offers declined before I made a placement. It got so disheartening that I was close to leaving. Thankfully, the advice was there in the back of mind and helped me ride it out and learn from it. Thankfully, I had a supportive manager who gave me the space to do so!
Who has a job that they love NOW, but nearly left soon just a few weeks or months after starting?