4 Tips for settling into a new role in social care

Starting a new role can be exciting, daunting, and often very exhausting!

To help you navigate the adjustment period, we’ve put together our top tips for settling into a new role in the social care sector.

Read on to find out more.

1. Don’t be put off by unfamiliar terminology

Starting a new role in a different organisation can mean you’re confronted with a whole lot of unfamiliar jargon – but don’t panic.

You’ll hopefully find that most of these terms are just different ways of talking about programs and processes you know by other names.

Your new colleagues are probably so comfortable with the lingo they don’t think to explain it – so don’t be afraid to ask questions when you need to.

It might seem obvious to them, but if you’re used to calling it something else, that makes sense too – so don’t doubt yourself.

2. Take time understanding what’s expected of you

While some roles have KPIs to meet from the get-go, others will want you to take your time settling in and getting to know how things are done in your new organisation.

Either way, don’t expect too much from yourself in the first week. It’s important to take a breath and familiarise yourself with who’s who and your new organisation’s policies and procedures – both what they are and where to find them for reference as you go.

If there’s a disconnect between what was advertised in your job description and what’s expected of you when you start working, revisit those expectations with your manager early on in an upfront conversation.

3. Book in regular catch ups with your manager

Further to point two, regular meetings with your manager can help clarify what they’re expecting from you. Ask what they expect from you in the first week, month, three months, six months, etc.

Knowing what’s expected of you is vital, whether you’re meeting those expectations or not. If so, you’ll have peace of mind and confidence – very welcome when settling into a new role! – or if not, you can use these catch ups with your manager to ask for assistance.

Plus, regular supervision and feedback are vital to social care practice – especially when you’re in a new role. So if these aren’t already offered in your workplace, use your catch ups with your manager to request them.

4. Find a buddy

If your new employer doesn’t assign you a buddy as part of your onboarding process, find your own one!

Establishing rapport and relationships with your colleagues won’t just make your new job more pleasant, but you’ll also have more people you can ask questions if you need.

This can especially come in handy for those times when you’ve already asked your manager something once, but have forgotten their answer. No need to bother them again when you can just ask your buddy.

Plus, research has shown a correlation between making friends with colleagues and being recognised for your recent work achievements – another win!

This article was originally published in at berecruitment.com.au.