Starting a new job can be one of the most stressful experiences, especially if the environment is completely different from a previous one. Employees transitioning into the defense industry face even more stress, including the possibility they won’t understand the language or military rank structure.
Even for transitioning veterans, who spent years in the military, may have difficulty transitioning into a defense industry job on the civilian side – it can be easy to revert to old roles or processes that might have been familiar from one’s days in boots and camo versus business dress. Keeping a few things in mind can help to prepare for the new office and alleviate some of the concern or stress from the process.
Here are some helpful suggestions towards that end:
1. Begin with a great introduction: Let your new managers and co-workers what you are bringing to the organization. Don’t be shy- they need to know up front the value and experience you will be providing to the group. Government offices, in particular, can be very insular (ever heard of stovepipes?) – try to work your way to the inside of the organization from day one.
2. Don’t be shy about asking questions: You won’t be helping yourself, or your co-workers, if you don’t understand the specifics of how things are done. No one expects you to know everything in your first month. It’s better to ask the majority of questions when you first start.
3. Be assertive, but don’t turn people off: It is great to be excited and ambitious, but too much, too soon can be a major turn-off. Pace yourself and give your new co-workers a chance to know you before becoming the office “expert”. Maintaining balance is key to being successful in establishing a solid foundation for good office relationships. This is especially critical if you’re a contractor working in a government office – while you’re hired to be a subject-matter-expert in a certain area, avoid trying to overstep your government counterparts, especially at first.
4. Do your homework: Reading up on the company or organization doesn’t stop once you’ve gotten the job. Once you begin, continue to learn as much about the organization you are supporting and how your prior experience and expertise can fit into the new role. Being a proactive and educated employee will be as beneficial to you as it will to your organization.
5. Don’t forget to say “Thank-You”: Being gracious, polite, and personable goes a long way. When people reach out to help you in your new role, be sure to show them your appreciation. Kindness and a good attitude will encourage others to reach out and assist. The best way to gain respect and earn points with management and staff is to be a wholly valuable asset to the organization. It isn’t just about what you know, it is also how you treat people and interact.
