Signing up for a new company when you work externally

Job Doc

Pattie Hunt Sinacole shares some strategies

Ask Job Doc. Boston.com

Subscribe to newsletter

Stay up to date on all the latest news from Boston.com

Q: I started a job in September. I work primarily externally, but it feels like my learning curve is steep. I do not feel that I know my team members, or how to handle some of the most basic tasks that others seem to be able to handle easily. Some suggestions?

A: First, let me pat you on the shoulder. You raise some concerns that are likely to be very common with new hires, especially those who have started working remotely for a new employer.

Sometimes when we start a new role, it’s like training a resting muscle. It feels awkward and there is a bit of tenderness. It is not fluid or easy. During our first few weeks at a new company in 2021, we are often setting up a new laptop, signing up for new benefits, attending virtual meetings with new faces, etc. Not being in an office, having face-to-face conversations , gifts definitely challenges. While you may get a handbook or intranet to review, employees who start from a distance lack some of the unwritten rules that are part of the culture. Do employees work through lunch, or are they invited to a lunch hour? Where do employees eat lunch? Do employees hang out outside of work, or are most employees dispersed right after work? Does your manager have an open door, or do they require you to schedule a connection time? Is there an area in the office where employees hang out?

Many employers have suggested check-in scheduled with new employees. Sometimes it may not be your supervisor, but it could be a buddy or another colleague. It is a good idea to make a list of questions in preparation for each meeting. Some of your questions may be general questions and some may be more job specific. If you are struggling with basic tasks, it may be a good idea to proactively ask your supervisor how you can “get up to speed” faster. Share a short list of tasks that are challenging for you. Start with the most important so that you are able to discuss the most critical tasks first, as time can sometimes be tight. Some of your questions may be more appropriate for your supervisor, while some may be more appropriate for your colleague. If you create a list, you are sending the message that you are taking the role seriously and you are organized.

I know some of our clients plan informal chats with employees via Zoom or Teams. There is no formal agenda, other than fun topics like how you like to exercise, have a pet where you have been on vacation, etc. These chats are invaluable for connecting employees with others and the organization in general.