John Clayton legal firm, lawyers, Nexus Legal...
Arrive in plenty of time!
Meeting new people and trying to learn the ‘ins and outs’ of the job can be daunting, especially if you’ve just moved to a new country too. One of my best tips is to arrive in plenty of time. Not only does this make you less stressed (as no one likes to run late!), it also helps you relax before the day begins. Grab a coffee or read the news on your phone while you wait.
What to expect
It is important to build strong relationships with fellow colleagues, understand the expectations of your role, and familiarise yourself with a new office environment. You will also be introduced to many people – try to remember their names! It’s always useful to write down names and which office they work in to avoid any social faux pas! It is also a good idea to introduce yourself to as many people as possible, even if you haven’t been ‘officially’ introduced. This shows that you’re eager to get to know everyone and it makes a great first impression!
Have all the necessary documents
When you arrive, make sure that you have all the documentation your employer needs. This may include transcripts and ID such as a passport, bank details required by the payroll department, details of your new address, and a host of other items. First days in a new job can be heavy on admin, so come prepared! This may come as a shock to lawyers relocating to certain countries with more traditional processes – one law firm client once mailed us a cheque rather than making a bank transfer, so don’t underestimate the glacial pace of development in some places!
Pick a Colleague and buddy up
This tip is more relevant in bigger organisations where there are several teams and floors in an office. Sometimes larger organisations will place you with your new work buddy for the first few weeks. Not only does this mean you have someone you know well in the office, it also helps you settle in and feel more comfortable in your new surroundings. This is especially important if you are moving overseas for the first time, not just for questions relating to your new workplace/tasks, but for anything relating to housing, schooling and day-to-day life.
Ready? Steady? GO!
If you follow these simple tips, you’ll have everything in place to make sure that you make the best impression possible to your new employer. For everyone, starting a new job can be a leap into the unknown but if you follow just some of these steps it will help you make the best of your first few weeks.
Are you thinking about making the jump and relocating overseas? We can help
Nexus Legal have successfully placed candidates in top tier firms all over the world, in locations such as Australia, Asia, the Middle East and South Africa. Contact one of our experienced consultants by calling: +44 161 870 6776 or email: relocate@nexuslr.com