Career clinic: Stepping into a new role at the same organisation

new job role organisation company

You know what to expect from your commute, the people you’ll be working with and the highs and lows of the workplace culture. But that doesn’t mean starting a new role within the same organisation is without its challenges.

Your tasks and objectives will almost certainly change. Even sideways moves can mean your power and authority levels will differ. Workload will undoubtedly ramp up, at least as you grapple with learning the ropes. And even if your key stakeholders are the same individuals, you’ll be surprised by how the relationship might alter within the context of a new position.

Whether you’re settling into a new role at the same organisation, or aspire to do so in the future, everywoman associate trainer Pippa Isbell has the answers to the questions on your mind.

 

Q: I’m not sure I’m going to get much settling in time before I’m expected to just get on with the job. When is the right time to start making change?

“The better you know the organisation, the less formal your induction is likely to be,” acknowledges Pippa. In a situation like that, nothing beats solid preparation, but you’ll also have to become quite reliant, drawing heavily on your self-motivation skills, particularly if you find yourself left to your own devices.

Ultimately, your actions are going to be what you’re judged on and so it’s important you start with a clear strategy, though of course you should be open to amending this as you learn. “You have two ears and just one mouth, so use those ears to take in as much as you can when you’re new,” says Pippa.

Begin as quickly as possible to build relationships with key people, holding regular meetings with your own boss, getting to know your own team and keeping your eyes and ears peeled for those ‘low hanging fruit’ that can turn into early wins. Then once you’ve laid that groundwork, it’s time to just get stuck in and make change. 

“Try and avoid starting with a lengthy review of what’s been done before. It creates a hiatus, and anxiety in those around you,” says Pippa. “Changes are hugely symbolic for a new leader, so focus on creating meaningful results. Research shows that 40% of new leaders struggle to make an impact in the first few months, but it’s really important to get on with delivering as soon as possible.”

 

Q: I’m very well known in my organisation for my performance in my current role. My new position is quite different but there’s an assumption that I’m guaranteed to succeed. How can i make sure that’s the case?

“It’s the old saying ‘What got you here, may not get you there’,” agrees Pippa. And the first step to addressing such concerns is to acknowledge them – so you’re already one step ahead.

While you shouldn’t assume that the company just wants more of the same you in your new role, you can assume that they have identified in you relevant transferable skills and qualities. Request a meeting with the hiring manager and ask for specific feedback around why you were chosen for the role, what strengths it will be imperative you bring with you, what qualities won’t matter as much when you make the move, and where there are gaps in your abilities that you’ll need to address.

No new boss is going to be put off by hearing the question: “What do I need to learn?” A lot of it will come down to knowledge you’ll only be able to gain once you’ve in the hot seat, but there may be other ways that you’ll need to adapt that you can start thinking about and planning for before you make the switch.
 

Q: It’s been made clear that the first few months in my new role are going to be crazy. How can i prepare myself?

 “You shouldn’t underestimate the pressure you’re going to be under in any new role,” says Pippa. So it’s positive, in some ways, that you’re going into the induction phase with your eyes wide open with regard to the workload levels, organisational shifts that are likely to occur, and the various other changes that might be afoot. 

“Don’t worry about the things you can’t do anything about; only concern yourself with the things that you have some control over yourself,” says Pippa. That means managing your stress levels and ensuring that you treat yourself kindly throughout the whole process. “Get exercise, good sleep if you can and eat properly. You need your machine to be working as best you can at this testing stage so cultivate resilience, and use your network to back you up and support you.”

 

Q: What if i just don’t like it? 

“This is a risk you take at any time,” says Pippa. “Just remember, you always have options.” She cautions, however, against kneejerk resignations or voicing your concerns too early. “At the beginning when everything feels unfamiliar, most of us would like to bolt back to the comfort zone.”

“Give it absolutely your best shot and if you really don’t like it, it’s time to make another change. The moment you are 100% sure, then talk to people around you, explaining that the new role is not for you. It doesn’t mean you have to leave the organisation necessarily.”
 

For more insight into career changes, watch on demand the everywomanNetwork webinars Fresh perspectives – stepping into a new role at the same organisation and Your role in a new location – how to succeed in a new phase in your career with Pippa Isbell.

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