Hi there,
Ah, 2020. The year of ‘unprecedented’ this and ‘new normal’ that – mass job losses and more remote work than ever before. You may be one of the lucky ones to secure a new remote job or project during the pandemic. But it doesn’t come without its challenges. Especially for the introverts out there (we see you!).
Whether you’re looking for a job or to recruit, both come with their own set of remote challenges. At Avion, we pride ourselves on seamlessly integrating with teams at agencies and corporations of all sizes. We’ve got a few tips on how you can kick off your new job or project remotely.
1. Reach out to your new colleagues
No matter where you’re doing it, the first few weeks in a new position is a wild ride. So many faces, names, procedures, platforms – it’s enough to wipe you out. Be sure to use the tools you do have to replicate face-to-face interactions as much as possible.
These opportunities may include:
- Zoom meetings
- Virtual work drinks or coffee
- Instant messenger chats (e.g. Slack).
Before you know it, you’ll be whipping out your best GIFs on Slack and having a laugh with co-workers. Remember, keep it professional but human!
2. Gather information as you go
Names, positions, preferred working styles and communication channels, ways of working and systems – it’s a lot to wrap your head around. And these materials won’t always be in your onboarding documents.
To make a great first impression, it’s well worth actively listening and jotting down any details that can help you do your job well.
Since you’re not in the same office as your manager and colleagues, help may not come knocking at your door. You’ve got to know how to ask for it.
3. Find your go-to person for questions
Let’s face it, you’re going to have a gazillion questions in your first couple of weeks. This is normal. And honestly, it would be borderline concerning if you didn’t! Be sure to ask for your manager’s support and explicitly ask for who you can come to with questions on the fly.
Sure, you can’t lean over to a colleague to ask a question. But that doesn’t mean you can’t reach out to a peer or your manager for answers.
Most people know what it’s like to be the newbie. Just be sure to respect their time and ask them when’s the best time to ask your question – and via what medium.
4. Understand expectations
Your manager doesn’t have the same level of oversight on what you’re doing each day as they would on-site. So, it’s important to know what’s expected of you and how to track your progress.
During your probation period, things are a little more uncertain. You’ll need to be across what tasks, deliverables and contributions to tasks or projects sit with you. Keep track of how you’ve worked towards achieving these things every day.
By having a clear understanding of what’s expected of you, you can stay accountable. You can also set up and follow a plan for your probation period so your manager can see how you’re nailing your new position.
5. Put your best foot forward
Subtle visual cues and body language can be lost in a virtual setting. Being positive and smiling can really go a long way. And even though you’re working from home, you should still put some effort into dressing professionally.
You should ensure your video background is neat and presentable for video calls. These efforts can make all the difference in your first days, weeks and months.
Just remember to be yourself, while being warm and professional. And remind yourself that starting a new job or project remotely isn’t easy. But with the right attitude and approach, you’ll win over your new colleagues in no time.
If you’re looking for a copywriter or content strategist to join your internal marketing team, get in touch with us today.
Until next time,
Jacinta & the Avion team
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