A life changing event can mean that you need to find new employment.
But going back to work is also life changing in itself!
We all know that returning to anything after an absence, short or long, can be surprisingly difficult.
Have any of you sports fans tried running around the block three times after a month without exercising? Have any of you parents attempted to recite the nine times tables while helping your child with homework?!
Undoubtedly, there is an extra layer of pressure involved with going back to work.
Not only can your financial position hinge on your success in a new role, but also your identity. When thrown into the blur of new co-workers, offices and information, it is unsurprising that many people become easily overwhelmed.
Here are our tips for going back to work with grace.
Create a back to work routine
Before going back to work, prepare your body with a new routine.
This means getting up and about early, and keeping stimulated and busy throughout the day.
If your new job is in retail, get used to being on your feet. If you are taking on a desk job but haven’t sat down for an extended period of time lately, spend a day or two in front of the computer doing some work prior to starting your new role (we know that it’s the automatic reaction for a lot of parents to feel sleepy as soon as you sit down!).
Preparing your body for your new position will make the back to work transition easier, and leave your eyelids feeling lighter at the end of the day!
If you have a question, ask!
In a new workplace, you aren’t expected to know the answer to everything.
If you can’t find something, ask where it is. If you don’t understand a directive, have it clarified. Many people fall into the trap of believing that by asking questions you are exposing yourself as inferior. In fact, the opposite is true!
Asking questions when you go back to work demonstrates that you are thinking about the role: that you are actively engaged, and that you have attention to detail. It’s better to ask an extra question than to spend an hour trying to solve a problem yourself – for you and your new boss!
Don’t be afraid of feedback
After your first week back to work, think about asking a superior for some feedback. This gives you the opportunity to hear about all of the things you are doing right (go you good thing!) as well as any problems. Taking initiative and showing interest in your performance will also land you some extra credibility with your boss. It demonstrates shows that you are conscious of being the best employee you can.
Above all else, be confident when going back to work!
You were offered the job because you were the best applicant for the position. Own it!
The Clarity Road Team
