Starting a new job can be exhilarating, exciting as well as nerve wracking. Having worries, feeling the need to impress and at times feeling like an imposter in the first few weeks is quite common. But, let’s face it – many of us at one point in our careers have found ourselves on the crossroads thinking: Did I make the right decision?, Do I really know what I am meant to be doing? Can I wing it till I make it?

It is natural to feel this way of course – I had a wobble a few months ago when I started a new job. I was overwhelmed – I guess I had moved to a very niche area ‘infection control’ and moved from a big team to a small team and there is a lot to learn in this specialised area. It is also a very interesting time to join this area of nursing whilst the country is experiencing the third wave of COVID-19. I have always thought that I loved a challenge, was a quick learner and adapt easily, but, this time I was almost giving into the little doubts in my head. Am I good enough and will I be able to meet the expectations of the role and ace it.

On top of switching into a new role, I had my first MBA assignment ‘Managing processes and systems’ that was almost due so the pressure was on.

As I reflect and look back; I am glad I shared my vulnerability via Twitter and afterwards people reached out and also shared their own experience. This has helped me write this.

The key to surviving the first few months in a new job is to:

• Believe in your ability and don’t doubt yourself otherwise you would have not been offered the job.

• Surround yourself with people who can support and advise you.

• Utilise your network and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

• Give yourself time to settle in and don’t be too harsh on yourself.

• People don’t expect you to be perfect or know everything and mistakes will happen. It is how you learn and grow following mistakes that matters.

• Pace yourself and trust your instincts.

• Reflect and take time to celebrate small wins.

• Pause, write down 3 things that went well every month and check in with yourself how you feel in 3 months.

• List the things that you need to build on and find ways of gaining confidence in those areas.

The first few months while finding your feet in a new role can be daunting and at times it feel as if you are always winging it! But, you are not. Simply put, you are using skills, experience and knowledge that you already have and it is a matter of trusting yourself and the capabilities you possess in a new environment.

I am glad I had a pep talk with someone when I had these anxieties. We managed to come up with a plan of overcoming my worries and that honest conversation boosted my confidence.

It is important to try and shadow other colleagues in the profession or ‘find a role model’ or ‘buddy’ whether it is in your organisation or another one and ask questions. Sometimes, it might be useful to find a coach or a mentor who will help you to put things into perspective and reflect on your ability.

The power of Twitter is amazing – use social media constructively and build your professional network. Follow and connect with people in your profession and don’t be afraid to ask if you need help.

Be patient and kind to yourself and it is ok not to feel ok at times. But, never underestimate yourself or sell yourself short. You can overcome the imposter syndrome feeling and let your true self do the job with confidence and integrity.