Dear Career Advisor:

I am new on the job, and thankfully, it is one in my field. However, work is not turning out as I expected. Well, maybe I don’t really know what I was expecting. Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy I’ve landed a decent job and all that, but it’s my second week at work and it doesn’t feel exciting. I don’t feel very accomplished and I wonder if my boss is satisfied. Can I tell you that I miss being in school?! While I was in school I wanted to leave so badly; now that I have a job I am having nostalgic feelings about school and missing it awfully.

Quitting is not an option, as I like the field and also I have loans to repay, but I need help.

Regards.

— Toni

Dear Toni

First things first. Congratulations on landing a job! The fact that you were not asked to leave within the first week appears to us that your boss has recognised that you are demonstrating the competencies they desire and that you have the potential to grow within the organisation.

The transition from school to work takes time. You are not alone as many new hires, especially those who did not have comparable workplace experience, often say, “It does not feel like what I was expecting” after just a few weeks on the job. This adjustment phase is often a reality shock. Thoughts and feelings often include loneliness, boredom, being overwhelmed with workload or responsibilities, fear of failure, or fear of making significant mistakes.

Give yourself time. We can assure you that you will not be feeling this way after two months or so. By then, the novelty would have worn off and reality will be the order of the day. Don’t take it for granted that everything will remain the same for very long. Managers often allow you time to adjust and therefore you might not have been given very challenging projects at the start. On the other hand, your wanting to impress and be an instant sensation as the model worker might not have been a realistic expectation. Although you are expected to hit the ground running and bring value to the organisation, no one is expecting you to be spectacular just out of the blocks! Take your time to learn the ropes by placing yourself on an even keel before launching off on your road to career success.

Below are a few tips you might find useful.

• Learn and understand your role. Begin by becoming thoroughly familiar with your job description. Be sure you know what is expected of you.

• Read all relevant company policies and procedures.

• Strive for excellence. Let your output be characterised by creativity, thoroughness and accuracy.

• Take the initiative. Don’t wait to be told what to do. See yourself as a problem solver.

• Personalise your workspace within reason. A conducive work environment fosters productivity and a sense of belonging.

• Be patient with yourself. Allow yourself time to grow in your new role.

• Reflect. At the end of each day, reflect on your output and self-assess to see what you could have done more efficiently.

• Build relationships with co-workers. They will provide you with useful feedback.

• Be positive. Maintain a positive and enthusiastic outlook.

The good news is that in a few months you will see things differently. Accept and enjoy this phase of transition, training and preparation.

Sincerely,

Career Advisor

Carolyn Marie Smith is associate vice-president of student services at Northern Caribbean University in Mandeville, Manchester. Submit your questions to her at careeradvisor@ncu.edu.jm