How to prepare yourself before taking up that new position
So you have been appointed to a new management position. Congratulations! Obviously, you will want to get off to the best possible start - that's important for your own self-confidence and for the impression you make on your colleagues. Often, however, some people feel inadequate in those first few weeks, particularly if they’re coming from outside the organisation. So, to assist you to overcome any initial uncertainty and to help you feel secure when you take over your new job, here is some useful advice...
1. Take time to plan and prepare for the move.
Time spent in planning and preparing in advance for your new job will pay dividends. Usually you will have several weeks at least between the date of appointment and taking up your new position. Get yourself organised immediately and start thinking about your new role.
2. Brief yourself as fully as possible.
Make contact with your new boss and obtain as much printed material as you can about your new organisation or position. This material will include mission statements, strategic plans, annual reports, organisational diagrams, projects in progress, productivity statements, policy handbooks, and the like.
Examine the material to become generally acquainted with the company - especially the part for which you will be responsible. Check out the qualifications and responsibilities of staff. Sort through the information provided, listing items about which you might need additional information.
3. Visit the organisation.
If possible, take time out to visit the premises of your new organisation, preferably when no-one else is there. Walk around the buildings and environs. Visit empty offices or workrooms; read the bulletin boards. Browse and observe - not to be critical but to familiarise yourself with the surroundings. First impressions can be important later on, so take notes. In time, these notes can be very revealing.
