The big step up
At certain points in your career you take a big step up. No matter how experienced and confident, no matter how prepared you thought you were , life in those first few months is hectic, chaotic and challenging. To survive you must remind yourself you are not expected to know every aspect of the job from day one. Even the most demanding boss will cut you some slack early on. You have transferable skills that will stand you in good stead ( interpersonal skills, problem solving skills) and you have shown yourself to be adaptable and resilient. Don’t think asking your boss for advice will make them question if you were the right person for the job it won’t. They have a vested interest in making your appointment a success and establishing a relationship where you are prepared to share problems early. People who report to you have much of the information you need so use them. New colleagues will be flattered that you value their opinion and will fill in some background material about what has gone on in the past which influences how people behave now. People will have agendas you are not yet aware of listen to what they want to tell you without committing yourself.
One of the reasons this is such a hectic and chaotic period is because everyone wants to talk to the new boss they want to see if you’re like minded , if you are receptive to doing things differently, if you present an opportunity or a threat. You should be accessible to all in those early days until you know enough to know who you want to be accessible to. Everyone may want to talk to you now but in the near future some will be less keen ,even though you really want to talk to them.
The honey moon period is brief you need to quickly get up to speed.
Blair McPherson former Director author and blogger www.blairmcpherson.co.uk
