The Coach’s Corner Newsletter #62
When you’re new to a location or onboarding in a new role, what do you do when obstacles inevitably surface?
A water pipe burst in the front yard of our new home this week. Thanks to my husband, the water to the zone was turned off and he dug in to discover the break(s). But his expertise only goes so far and it took us a bit of time and effort to figure out how to get someone out to fix the break.
Being a newcomer means you don’t have the clout of a longstanding relationship. So when you make a call it doesn’t warrant an immediate response. And when you have a hole in the front yard, you have to reach out and ask for help. Again and again.
That newcomer experience hit one of my clients this week as she began a new role. She’d spent months researching, seeking out and interviewing for what she believed was an incredible position. When she accepted the offer she was thrilled, but in a matter of weeks that joy has turned to a feeling of angst.
There is so much I don’t know – how do I reveal I need help without looking weak?
We have all been there, or maybe you’re there right now. The dilemma of reaching out without appearing incapable.
THIS WEEK’S INSIGHT
Who you gonna call?
As Jenny entered her third week of what she earlier described as a “fantastic new job with a huge promotion and filled with opportunities,” she recognized there were a number of areas that the onboarding process wasn’t addressing.
I didn’t realize a 90-minute commute would be so draining, especially when I’m expected to work longer hours than I anticipated. And weekends, no one mentioned they could call me on a Saturday morning!
Expressing her frustration was the beginning of realizing she needed to say something. We explored where she could begin.
First, I could go to the hiring manager. I know I can’t change the commute, but I believe I can explore how to manage my time better. I can also find out what’s expected of me on the weekends.
Jenny began to breathe easier.
I don’t want to fail. I really want this to work out. So I know there are things I can ask for and be clear about.
From here she outlined a new team lead who would have information on a specific issue she needed more information on, a partner whose work she needs to get approval from and her own manager for her one-on-ones.
Turns out I do know who might have the answers, I just have to reach out, don’t I?
THIS WEEK’S TOOL
Shoring up your support system
Reaching out can be challenging. The rewards, however, outweigh what could take place without asking for help. I’d like to offer you three ways to shore up your own support system anywhere.
- Remember you’re new here!
As a newbie working to make a good impression, you may forget that you’re actually new here. You are helping yourself and your team when you ask for clarification – rather than diving in on your own.
- Ask the right person
Whether it’s reaching out to the hiring manager, a referral or the former owner of a property- there is most likely someone ready to offer you a direct answer that can save you a great deal of time.
- Create a list of questions
Rather than coming back to a source numerous times, put together a series of issues/questions that you want addressed. Then, when the time is right, share your list.
My takeaway
This afternoon, an amazing irrigation crew showed up at our home. They spent four hours in 100 degree heat repairing the damage to the pipes and the water line. We are so grateful!
While they were here we created a list of questions for them. We want to establish a relationship for the future so that our irrigation system flows beautifully without any breaks,
Wherever you are in your work or life, there are times when you are the new kid on the block. Revealing what you don’t know allows someone who does know the answer to support you, and who knows what kind of connection you may forge?
Ask for help. Not because you are weak. But because you want to remain strong.
Les Brown
