subject: Things To Consider When Starting A New Job Abroad [print this page] Starting a new job is always stressfulStarting a new job is always stressful. The relief of being back on a payroll again can be great, but entering a new organisation can be a daunting experience, and particularly if you are starting a new job in a new country.
Dealing with the change is something which many people dislike, but familiarising yourself with a new job and new experience will make it more easy for you the next time a big change comes along. Changes might result in an uncomfortable, hesitant feeling, but stick with it and eventually you'll come out the other side a bigger and better individual.
When you start a new job, particularly in a larger company, you can expect some sort of induction programme to learn the ropes and make a positive contribution as soon as possible. This induction can include all sorts of information, including computer access, passwords, procedures, reports and admin. Fire escapes, toilets and kettle are also essential points of reference.
The best companies realise the importance of induction programmes and ensure that they get the most out of new employees from day one. The fact that many companies neglect their induction procedures might help us to understand the high rate of employee turnover at many organisations.
Remember, first impressions count. Be as nice, prepared and enthusiastic as possible to start with and ensure that you get off to a good start with new colleagues. If you're starting a job in a new country then prepare yourself for a different social environment. Even if you're working in the same industry as your last job, you'll probably be working with people from a different age group and different social structure. In different cultures working relationships are different. In some countries it may be normal for colleagues to become friends and start socialising outside of work, where in others working relationships are supposed to be kept separate.
Be open to different styles of work, including working in open plan offices, cubicles or private offices. You might be used to a lot of privacy in your old job but when starting at a new organisation you have to go with the flow.
Everyone enjoys a relaxed, casual atmosphere at work where jokes can be had and strong words can be exchanged without bad feeling creeping in. In some societies companies have to be much more careful because of legal implications around lawsuits. You need to adopt the corporate regulations and become part of the team.
When starting a new job the most important thing is to observe and reserve your judgement. Tread lightly and don't rock the boat initially, take the time to figure out exactly what is going on before you try to put your mark on it.
