| Your new job
- how to make an effective transition
Congratulations! You have
landed the position (or promotion) you have
been seeking for what seems like so long. There
is still some work to do in this process as
you transition into your new job. Taking the
time to plan your entry into the job and organization
will enhance your career in many ways- it’s
worth it. Following is a brief description of
the elements of a Transition Plan.
The steps to take:
1. Make the announcements
to the appropriate people and organizations-
any organizations you belong to, professional
societies, clubs, etc., should receive news
of your change.
Your network should also hear
about the good news. Remember that people like
to help other people. Those who had a hand,
or who simply offered support, want to know
that their efforts paid off. And the rest of
your network will take note also. Remember that
your network grows with each job, and it stays
with you long beyond that job.
Think about the various groups
who will be receiving the news, and plan your
communication so that each group receives the
appropriate information. Custom tailor your
letters, cards etc. Internally, plan your announcement
(and work with whoever may be assigned to this)
to help you to set the tone for the most effective
communication- your ‘entrance.’
2. Tie up loose ends- let
any recruiters you were working with, or any
other organizations that you were talking to,
know about your new position. This keeps them
from making further efforts on your behalf,
and displays a professional style.
3. Get to know the organization-
any organization has its own informal way of
doing things, what Peter Scott-Morgan called
“The Unwritten Rules of the Game”
in his book. Make it a point to understand how
things really work; what the informal organization
chart looks like. This may call for some diplomacy
and tact, so ease into this task. Some people
who are more visually oriented will even draw
out this informal organization chart.
4. Get to know the others-
and let them get to know you. Especially if
your office or work area is isolated from the
others, get out and talk to your fellow workers.
Of course there are professional limits to this
around how much time you should be spending
in this. This is a good time to be an information
sponge, to be a good listener, as well as an
effective communicator. Remember that first
impressions count, and you will be making many
of them in your new role.
And if you are moving into
an industry that is new to you, get to know
your colleagues in other similar organizations,
and the competition also.
5. Understand what is expected
of you- from the interviews and job description,
you have a pretty good idea of what to do. But
blend that with your knowledge of the unwritten
rules, and if you are not sure on some areas,
ask. This is not a time to make assumptions.
6. Plan your focus- now that
you are somewhat settled in, what are your first
projects? How can you make an early contribution?
During the honeymoon period you have the opportunity
to establish and position yourself for long-term
success. Think through your project plans- establish
goals and metrics for yourself, so you will
know how you are doing. Consider the impact
of your projects on the organization’s
vision and mission. And most importantly, don’t
try to do it all in an effort to make an early
mark.
7. Keep networking- network
within your new organization and outside. Think
about connections you might help people make.
Let your recruiters know that you can be a source
of information for them.
8. Review your long
term plans- this new job is a different vantage
point for you. Take the time to reconsider your
personal vision, and how this job can advance
you along the path to achieving your vision.
And consider your new organization’s vision-
how aligned are you with the fit there?
Right Choice Careers, LLC|
jess@rightchoicecareers.com | 
(413) 977-9273
|
