Starting a new job is a journey
Starting a new job is a journey—one that’s both exciting and challenging. The important thing to remember is that you’re not starting from scratch in a new role; you’re starting from experience.
When considering your next chapter, whether it’s a new role or an entirely new career path as I did, embrace what you’ve learned from past experiences and focus on the transferable skills and strengths you bring to the table.
Starting a new role often comes with a flood of emotions that can feel both overwhelming and draining. The good news is that these feelings are completely normal, and you’re not alone. It’s the challenge of navigating the unknown that fosters growth and resilience.
Below are some common emotions I experienced when starting at Gembridge, as well as in past roles, during my first weeks and months. You may experience some of these feelings too, so I’ve included tips to help manage them:
1. Anxiety
That feeling when your heart starts racing, and you feel so overwhelmed that your vision blurs… it’s the pits! If you find yourself anxious as you navigate your new role and grapple with unfamiliar systems, focus on small wins, like mastering a new process or successfully completing a task. Take deep breaths and remind yourself that over time, familiarity will replace uncertainty, and your confidence will grow.
TIP: Be kind to yourself and embrace the learning process!
2. Confusion
Onboarding involves processing a flood of new information, and even with detailed notes, the sheer volume can feel overwhelming. It certainly did for me!
TIP: Ask lots of questions to accelerate your understanding and seek support when needed. You’re not expected to learn everything in one day. Trust that your employer hired you for your skills, experience, and potential, and they understand that learning takes time. As you contribute and see positive results, these doubts will subside.
3. Stress and Exhaustion
Adjusting to a new job isn’t just mentally challenging—it’s physically tiring too, when you’re learning new systems, understanding expectations, and integrating into a new workplace culture. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, prioritising self-care can make a big
difference. Get enough rest (put your screens away earlier to ensure better sleep), take breaks when needed, and don’t hesitate to communicate how you’re feeling with your manager. Often, they can normalise what you’re going through and reassure you that they’ve been there themselves.
TIP: Remember that stress is a natural part of any transition. With time, the pressure will ease as you become more comfortable in your role and surroundings.
4. Sense of Unfamiliarity
Even in a warm and welcoming workplace, you might initially feel a bit lost or isolated. Building relationships takes time, and you may miss the camaraderie of your previous workplace. Comparing your new job to your old one or second-guessing your decision won’t help.
TIP: Focus on being proactive in getting to know your colleagues. Join team lunches, participate in office activities, and engage in casual conversations. Friendships will develop naturally over time, and before you know it, you’ll feel like part of the team.
As a recruiter, I bring my own experiences into my professional dealings and remind candidates that feelings of uncertainty are temporary, but the opportunities for growth and success are long-lasting.
My thoughts… embrace the journey—growth and resilience await on the other side.