How to Fit in at a New Remote Job
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Starting a new job is exciting, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most intimidating aspects of a new job is knowing that you’ll need to try to fit into a workplace with an existing culture and already strong relationships.
That’s hard enough in normal circumstances, but what if you’re hired to work remotely? Remote workers and telecommuters were once the outliers of the workforce, but lately (especially in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic), working outside the office is becoming the norm.
So how do you fit into an office environment…when you’re away from the office? Luckily, there are some things you can try.
Introduce yourself “face-to-face,” sooner than later.
Your first introduction to your team might be through email, and that’s okay. But it’s important that you give your coworkers a face to put with your name, and you should try to do it sooner rather than later. Introduce yourself over a video call when you can.
Follow onboarding procedures.
Chances are, your new company has procedures that every new employee needs to follow when they’re hired. It probably involves a good amount of paperwork, but it could also include training or reviewing company-specific materials that discuss expectations, values, and culture. Review these materials carefully to avoid any hiccups in your onboarding progress.
Ask for help.
One of the best ways to build connections at a new workplace is to ask others for help. Not only will it make your life easier, but it will give them a chance to work with you and get to know you. When you’re working remotely, you need to be clear about when you need help; your coworkers won’t have any visual clues that might signal to them that you’re a bit lost.
Check in often.
Schedule times to check in regularly with people on your team, particularly the ones you’ll work the most with. A lot of office camaraderie is built in the “in-between” moments, times when you can have an informal conversation or walk over to a coworker’s desk to ask a quick question. Since these opportunities aren’t available in remote work, you have to manufacture them.
Participate in social “events.”
Because relationships are so important to a thriving workplace, many companies have started holding virtual social events that allow remote workers to participate. This might be a morning coffee chat, a weekly happy hour, or a casual lunch. While it might be tempting to shy away from such events, make a commitment to show up. You’ll get to know your coworkers faster, and you’ll become more familiar with the culture of your new workplace.
Fitting in at a new job is always hard, but when you’re working remotely, it’s even harder. Have patience with yourself, your new employer, and your coworkers. Do your best to get to know everyone and to learn everything you need to know to do your job effectively. If you can do that, you’ll set yourself up for success.
For help finding the right team member to add to your staff, contact EDI Staffing today. We have over 25 years experience in the industry and can staff positions ranging from IT and EDI, to HR and accounting.
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