It is always exciting to start a job when your first day is in the office surrounded by new colleagues. But what happens when you start a new company remotely, something that has become more common in recent times?
Sitting alone in your home office, getting answers to even the basic questions can be slow. And setting up technological devices properly is another challenge. And how do you get to know all the new people you work with?
To help you feel less isolated and get on with the right foot in the new remote function, we have separated some suggestions:
Before the first day
Review all company materials. Some companies are still providing an integrated experience for new employees, albeit online, but there are still those that don’t. In any case, it is important to ask about documents, links, and videos that the company has, which can provide an overview of the company’s policies, code of conduct, and best practices. As you become familiar with them, you will be able to better understand the organizational culture. If it is too much and you find that you will not be able to go through everything before the first day, ask your new supervisor for guidance on which parts to prioritize. Also, if you are confused about something, make a list of questions and present it at the appropriate time during check-in meetings with your manager.
Check your technology. If your new employer sends you some equipment, check it immediately and make sure everything is working properly. If something is wrong, ask your manager for IT support and follow the process. The IT professional can also provide instructions on how to properly configure the equipment if you are using your own devices. In addition to email, don’t forget to ask about file sharing, online collaboration, and anything else you might need to interact remotely with your new team.
From the first day onwards
Meet with your manager frequently. Supervisors are likely to want to meet new hires daily for the first few days. However, if that is not the case, proactively update your manager on what you are working on every day. That way, in addition to answering questions, you guarantee that you are on the right path.
Create a bond with your new team. Obviously, it is more difficult to establish working relationships with new colleagues as remote employees. When you have any questions or want advice, send an email reminding the recipient that you are the “newbie” and have a question. You can also start a conversation by exchanging emails. This will help to create bonds and facilitate your integration into a new organization. Using video calling tools, you can even chat with your new co-workers – if they are comfortable with that. In addition to work, it is also healthy to establish personal connections in the first few days and weeks. If your colleagues post photos of your pets on common networks, for example, share some photos of yourself as well. If you find that you have interests in common with someone, bring these topics up in a separate conversation or share articles or thoughts that might spark a conversation.
Discover individual preferences. Notice how your new manager and coworkers like to interact. Some people prefer the phone, while others prefer email or instant messaging. The sooner you find out how people like to connect, the faster you will establish a good relationship with them. If you don’t know, ask! Most people will be happy to share.
Create structure and boundaries. Establish boundaries between your work and your home life. If your manager has not suggested a specific work schedule for you, select some and ask if your plan is feasible for the supervisor and colleagues. Try to keep those same hours every day and if you are forced to make an exception on a certain day, share it with others as soon as possible.
Since it is more difficult to remotely give a definitive signal that the workday is over, it is very easy to let the working hours pass to personal time. It is also tempting, as a remote employee, to extend your working days to accommodate all requests, especially when trying to prove yourself in a new role in which you are not seen personally. Part of this is understandable, but be careful not to get tired. And resist the urge to send emails if you’re working late into the night.
Check your progress. When you speak to your supervisor, ask for feedback. How did you do during your first week? Are there ways to improve your distance communication? It is important to obtain this type of meter when starting in a new position, especially a remote one, to ensure that you are on the right track. In addition to demonstrating that you are open to constructive criticism – an important quality in any employee.
Starting a new job remotely can be something new for many people. These tips can help you establish authentic connections with your new manager and co-workers and make you feel part of the team, even if not everyone is in the same office.