CHAPTER 13Starting and Staying in Work
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Getting your first UK job offer is an exciting moment. When you’re offered a job, you can take some time to think about it. Make sure you know when the employer expects your decision.
If you have any questions or concerns about starting your new job, you should discuss these with your Employment Adviser.
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Firstly, getting your first job is a great way to start your career in the UK and to help improve your wellbeing, skillset, English language skills, and of course to start earning some money. It can feel unsettling when thinking about making such a big change in your life, but remember your long-term plans and the goals you have set with your Employment Adviser.
Some of the things your Employment Adviser can discuss with you before starting a new job include working out how your income will affect your benefits, how long it will take you to travel there, and whether you will need to make childcare arrangements. All these issues can be overcome with a view to successfully starting your new job.
Don’t forget that your Employment Adviser will also be there to support you for the first three months of work to make sure that you settle in and to help you navigate any issues in the workplace.
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When you decide to accept the job offer, you should let the hiring manager know. You should then ask about your start date.
After this, you will be sent a contract and some additional paperwork to fill out. You can ask your Employment Adviser for support with this if there is anything you do not understand.
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Starting a new job can feel very stressful. However, you can do lots of things before your first day to help you feel calmer.
It is a good idea to review the job description for the role and do some more research on the company before you start. This will help you feel more confident.
Taking care of your physical health is also very important. You should make sure you get enough sleep, eat properly, and exercise.
You can also think about what you want to wear for your first day. If you do not own any appropriate work clothing, there are organisations that can help you get some.
Make sure you know where you need to be, what time you need to be there, and how you are going to get there. You can practise the journey before you start to get familiar with the route and the journey time. It is always good to try to arrive early.
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Your employer will give you an induction to introduce you to the organisation and your colleagues. This will usually include basic information about where you are working and what you will be doing.
They should also tell you about the organisation and the rules you’ll be expected to follow. These rules (also called policies) tell you how to do your job and act while in the workplace.
You might be given a handbook or a web link where you can read about them, or you’ll receive training on some of the rules as part of your induction. It is important that you know about the rules the organisation has and try to follow them.
If you’re not sure how to do something or why you’re doing it, ask your manager or a colleague. During your first few days, make an effort to introduce yourself to lots of different people.
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Plan your time and create a to-do list every day
Always try to have a positive attitude
Build relationships with your colleagues
Ask for feedback: this is the best way to improve!
Make sure you keep a good work–life balance
Ask to be kept updated about development opportunities
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If you are finding your work too much, let your manager know. They may be able to reduce the number of tasks they are asking you to do, or help you to manage your time better.
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It is very normal to feel stressed at work, especially if you are new to a job.
Your manager and your colleagues will also be there to help you with anything you might be finding difficult.
Keeping a journal about your experiences at work can be a really effective way of reflecting on what you are enjoying and what you are finding stressful. It can also make it easier to decide what you can do to reduce your stress levels and increase your enjoyment in your job.
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Workplace etiquette means our manners and behaviour at work, and how we communicate with other people. Different workplaces have very different environments, and so it is important to make sure we know how to behave and conduct ourselves.
The best way to understand etiquette at your new workplace is to speak to your manager and your colleagues, and to observe the behaviour of other people.
Workplace etiquette
Workplace etiquette means our manners and behaviour at work, and how we communicate with other people. Different workplaces have very different environments, and so it is important to make sure we know how to behave and conduct ourselves.
The best way to understand etiquette at your new workplace is to speak to your manager and your colleagues, and to observe the behaviour of other people.
Do…
Be polite – say please, thank you and sorry
Respect your colleagues and their opinions
Be on time
Ask before borrowing anything
Avoid confrontation – try not to give harsh criticism
Clean up after yourself, and keep your working area tidy
Introduce yourself with a handshake
Be respectful of personal space
Work hard
Only smoke in designated smoking areas
Don’t…
Talk about sensitive subjects such as politics, religion, or sex
Introduce yourself with a kiss or a hug
Be scared to ask about etiquette in a new workplace
Additional resources
Glossary
Induction
when someone is formally introduced into a new job or organisation. This can include introductions to colleagues, training, health and safety etc
Policies
the set of rules or principles which must be followed by employees within an organisation. For example, each company will have its own policy on holiday and maternity leave
Find out more