Ask EDN Question
Dear EDN,
I recently started a new job and I’ve noticed that my Supervisor is stretched thin. I try to lean on my team to ask questions, but everyone’s schedule differs, so I end up having to figure things out on my own. My Supervisor makes herself available if I seek out help, but sometimes I don’t know I need the help until I run into a situation we haven’t covered. It sometimes takes days to get a response.
I was recently informed that my Supervisor accepted a position elsewhere and now I feel like I’m alone on an island. I’m worried that I will be forgotten or lost in the shuffle and I take pride in my work. My Supervisor plans to exhaust some leave, so she may not be available her last two weeks. How do I seek out the help I need without seeming incompetent and/or aggressive? I don’t want my dependence on management to reflect poorly on me when promotion time comes. Thanks!
Ask EDN Response
Dear New Kid on the Block,
We first want to congratulate you on your new job! We hope you took the time to celebrate that accomplishment. We shared your question across our social media platforms and we received some great feedback.
The Question(s) not Asked
“The worst question ever asked is the one which is never asked.” ― Krishna Saagar
The best thing to do is ask questions. Everyone knows you are new to the job, so the hope is that asking for help, from management and your coworkers, will be welcomed. Don’t focus so much on how you will be perceived, but ask for help on the front end, so you have the tools to perform well. Also, asking questions on the front end allows you to make mistakes and learn from them. Lastly, make a list of questions or concerns you have and present them to your Supervisor. Having this talk with your Supervisor will help them prepare their replacement when it comes to your specific needs. Ultimately, be confident in your capabilities and don’t be afraid to seek out help when you need it.
Know your Environment
You’re new to the job, so you may not know the dynamics that existed prior to your arrival. You also may not know which individuals will welcome your inquiries, versus those who would rather not be bothered. The best thing to do is try your best with what materials you’ve been given and lean on your team, as you see fit. Take time to observe the interactions and behaviors of the people you work with. If you can connect with a few likeminded individuals on your team, try reaching out to them first.
Show Appreciation and Support
As you continue to build work relationships, don’t forget to show appreciation to the people that have helped you on your journey. Treat them to coffee in the morning or take them out to lunch. Show them that you appreciate their support. Also, support your team by volunteering for projects, serve on employee resource groups, offer to assist your coworkers if you have some downtime, and assist with the training of new hires that may come after you.
Being the new person isn’t easy, but take this time to enjoy your new job, learn as much as you can to perform well, have the confidence to ask for help, and be the help someone else may need in the future. Best of luck to you!
Best,
EDN