I left my present job, which was stable but had limited opportunities, and went to a larger company that is so different. I think I’ve made a mistake.
This was a frantic call I received from a project manager who’s dealing with buyer’s remorse. It seemed like the best job ever. The money was good and the benefits great.
But a dream job can turn into a nightmare if you haven’t checked out the company’s culture before joining it. The career challenge of moving into a new organization is like moving to a new country — you need to learn the language, connect with the people and know the do’s and the don’ts of appropriate behavior.
Advice from a job changer
Mary, wanting to be in senior management at a large metropolitan hospital, realized she will need to change jobs, each one with increased responsibility. This probably means moving from one hospital to another. She makes it a habit to take several steps when she applies for a position and after she accepts it.
During the interview she asks:
- What skills and behaviors will be successful here?
- What is the average tenure of your employees?
- How does the company define success for itself?
- How would you describe the corporate culture?
Once in the position, she advises:
- Do not assume that what made you successful in one company will work, even within the same industry.
- Ask a lot of questions — of your manager, of your peers, of whomever is willing to help you.
- Ask for expectations in terms of output, time, and content for all work assignments.
- Develop a glossary of company buzz words and phrases so that you, too, can sound like an old hand.
- Find the best possible guide to the company, someone who has been around forever and knows how everything works.
Career Success Tip
On-boarding is one of several career challenges you may face. Successful transition into a new organization or a new position requires a quick understanding and adaptation to a new culture, new people and a new political arena. So don’t jump ship yet. Rather focus on learning the new ways of working.
Do you want to develop Career Smarts?
- For more resources, see the Library topic Career Management.
- Start with the Career Success System.
- Sign up for Career Power: 101 success tips.
- Fast track your career. Be part of a Success Team.
- Need a speaker? Get the Edge Keynotes-webinars-workshops.
- Find career and leadership boosters in the Smart Moves Blog.
- Copyright © 2011 Marcia Zidle career and leadership coach.
Marcia Zidle, a certified career strategist and business coach, works with high potential, high impact executives, managers and professionals to advance their careers and grow their leadership capabilities. 
A month ago my boss left this company to take a better job. Now he’s calling me to join him at his new company. I liked working with him but I also like working here. Should I go?
Jessie,
It sound simple. You’ve worked for him, know him, like him. He’s in a better job; you’ll be in a better job. But, before you jump ship, answer these questions: Is the company one that you would like working for as much as the present one? Will it offer you more opportunity for advancement or better training or better salary? What will your position be-the same as the one you have or something different? In short, what will you give up and what would you gain? Good luck!