The job search has been even tougher considering all circumstances; but now you have you have survived it and managed to secure a new opportunity! Now, due to the Covid-19 crisis, another stumbling block to overcome is settling into your new team a different way. 

This will very much depend on how businesses are encouraging their employees to work, whether that be remotely or back in the office with safety restrictions in place. Settling into a new team under normal circumstances can be challenging for some, without the current changes we’re seeing due to health concerns. 

Whether you’re joining a new workforce remotely or physically, we have some tips to help you ensure your transition can be as smooth as possible. 

Set Up Your Workstation 

Before you begin your new role, ensure that you have an appropriate workstation to be able to conduct your day-to-day work duties. If you’re working remotely, it may be worth setting up a home office, where you can go to everyday to work. Your home office will be the perfect place for you to conduct your day-to-day duties, without any distractions. This can be a challenge at times if you live with family and have responsibilities including children; however, a space where you can concentrate and conduct meetings if necessary, will come in handy. 

Some may find working in other locations such as café or open workspace more convenient if they cannot work at home. Having a good work-life balance is key to a productive mindset, working remotely or at home, can achieve this. If you’re office is operating, then your employer would have already organised your workstation for you; this is likely to be located where your team is, to build an instant working relationship. 

Technology/Resources

You must make sure that you are fully equipped to enjoy your new position. If you’re working in the office, your employer will ensure you have all that you need to get you going, but there will be things that you will have to take care of yourself, if you are working remotely. You will need a desktop/laptop, stable internet and the logins to any platforms you will need to access. Before you start, this is usually gathered by your employer, but it’s always good to ask should you have any questions or require assistance. 

You may also receive some company resources via email to help you get settled into your role and find out more about the company. This may include the company website, an employee handbook or any documents that are deemed relevant to help you get started. 

The Importance Of Communication 

As it’s likely you’ll be working remotely, you must make sure that you maintain communication with your new colleagues as frequently as possible. Team collaboration and communication is very important towards achieving goals and targets, especially when working remotely. 

There are various digital communication tools that businesses can use such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, to help day-to-day meetings. Regular communication with your line manager or boss is important early on. This will help you ask any questions you may have and also give you a chance to meet your new colleagues. You can also reach out to your colleagues should you need a helping hand.

Don’t Put Too Much Pressure on Yourself

As anyone who is starting a new position, you’ll be eager to impress and of course, there is a need to be successful as soon as possible. Don’t worry, it’s easier starting a new job in an office rather than remotely. The key is to be positive and do all of the small things correctly.

It may take you some time adjusting a new job or environment, particularly in the current conditions, but as long as you’re taking care of your responsibilities, it is likely to become second-nature as time goes on. 

Good luck in your new role!