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.png "Things to know when starting a new position")
Ellen Zimmerman
April 06, 2023
Newsletter ArticleSo, you’re starting a new role. Congratulations! There is a lot to consider when opening this new chapter. As I have journeyed through my career, I have learned a lot along the way and gathered a few tips and tricks that make starting fresh a little easier. From growth tools to self reflection, this article explores things that are helpful for anyone starting a new role.
How You leave is Just as Important as How You Start
As I’m sure you know, the agricultural industry is small and maintaining your reputation is key. How you leave an organization, the relationships in that workplace and how you prepare the person taking on your role for success is just as important as how you step into your new position.
Know Your Limits
No one can tell you how big of a plate you have. Everyone can only hold so much on their plate, and only you can determine how large and how full you want your plate to be. While no one can tell you what your capacity is, self reflection to determine how much you can handle is key to success.
Find and Use a Time Management System
I strongly believe in time management systems. You need to figure out what works best for you and hone the ability to verbalize your time management system. Time management is a conversation that will continually come up — whether in interviews or from your manager — and will be challenged as you progress in your career. You should be able to verbalize how you prioritize and clearly articulate how you handle your workload.
Have a Resume For Real
Everyone should have what I call a resume for real. This is a document containing all of your experiences, conferences and student organizations with every bullet point imaginable underneath them. As you start your new position, be sure to add this and your new experiences to it. While you accumulate certificates and professional development opportunities, add those too. Having a running document with everything you have ever done makes customizing resumes and cover letters much easier, faster and far more accurate.
Dive Into Organizational Culture
When applying and interviewing for jobs and internships, take some time to learn about the company's culture and values. After you’re hired, spend time understanding and familiarizing yourself with the company's policies, procedures and expectations. The culture also includes the people within the company. Get to know your colleagues and build relationships with them. You will be working with these people on a daily basis, so it's important to establish positive working relationships. It’s especially important to establish good relationships with those that have different work styles. Having the personal relationship will make seeing things differently a little easier.
Understand Your Role
Understand your responsibilities and what is expected of you in your new role. Ask questions if you're unsure about anything. Be aware of the performance expectations for your role and how your performance will be evaluated and measured.
Stay Positive
Remember, starting a new job can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be scary. Instead, view it as a great opportunity to learn and grow in your career. Stay positive, be proactive and take advantage of the opportunities that come your way!
