3.2 Work uncertainties

Everyone faces work uncertainties before starting a new job. What will the role be like? What if I don’t know what to do? When will I meet my work colleagues? These are all valid concerns, and the only thing you can do to help with these is to do your research. You may not have an exact idea about what you will be doing, but there are a few things you can do to prepare:

• Ask around – You should have the contact information for your manager or the recruiting team, so sending a quick email asking if there is anything you should familiarise yourself with could really make a difference when your first day arrives.

• The job description – Refamiliarise yourself with the job description, which should include a list of your basic responsibilities or tasks. If there is anything on there you do not understand, research it. You should be taught what to do anyway, but there is no harm in getting a head start.

• Visit the company website – It may seem obvious, but the company website should tell you all about what the organisation does, and it may even have information on your specific role. Understanding the company is crucial to success in any job!

Remember, you will never know everything about the job before you start. You will learn a lot in the first few weeks and months, once you arrive. However, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared, and this can help alleviate any work uncertainties you may have before starting!