What to do if you are starting a new job as a leader

When beginning a new job, as a leader, starting off on the ‘right’ foot is key and that means figuring out some crucial details before diving in. No matter how much formal or informal onboarding you get, it’s important to keep a few strategies in mind. They might sound simple, but you’d be amazed at how many people skip these basics when starting a new role.

Strategy 1: Inform yourself about the rules

Make sure you have a clear understanding of policy guidelines. Too often people don’t know what is allowed or not. Knowing the rules helps you to ensure that you and your team operate within the boundaries set by the company. It also helps you to make better decisions that align with company policies and objectives. If you show you understand and follow the rules you will earn the trust and respect of team members, colleagues and stakeholders. A great question to ask is: ‘What is the number one rule people forget about in this company?’ Or phrased differently: ‘What is the number one mistake people tend to make in this company?’ Ask every division and especially HR and compliance. 

If it’s a smaller company, take the time to ask individuals separately. You could ask questions like: ‘What’s one thing you wish you’d known when you started here?’ or ‘Are there any “unwritten rules” around here that people don’t often talk about?’

Strategy 2: Inform yourself about the past

Informing yourself about past events, challenges and successes within a company is essential. It will give you a valuable context and it will also give you insight into how people approach the past. Are they willing to share about the past? Are they negative or hesitant? Do they hold grudges or are they full of energy, proud of what has happened and who they work for?

Don’t just ask about product history or key decisions, but also about significant events involving employees. Understanding and listening to people describe the company’s history helps you identify patterns and will help you to make informed decisions and avoid repeating past errors. Being aware of past events fosters transparency and trust among colleagues and stakeholders, because it demonstrates your commitment to understanding the organisation's journey. 

Knowing both the company’s history and its social dynamics helps you contribute better to its future and build stronger connections with colleagues.

Strategy 3: Inform yourself about the company culture

What are the dos and don’ts within this company? While values might be written down somewhere, ask people about the main three values they think are important within the company to understand what they truly embody. Asking questions like ‘What is the best thing someone has ever done?’ or ‘What is the worst thing anyone has ever done?’ can provide insights into the company culture and what people consider outstanding or important. What are the values according to them?