Summer is the season when many in education and other fields begin a new job. It’s easy for those in that situation to get caught up in the excitement of starting and to focus on all they have yet to learn.
Whether a seasoned professional or a recent college graduate, I would encourage all the newbies to take some time to reflect before diving right into the new position. What lessons were learned in the last role — things to continue learning and those to forego? What skill would be most beneficial to learn in this job? Thinking about the relationship with your supervisor — what do you need from that person and what do you want them to know about you? If you had to start your past job over again, what would you do differently, and can you make that adjustment now?
Those who recently hired or promoted you obviously saw your strengths, but only you know your flaws and insecurities. Before the opportunity to change your behavior is lost in the whirlwind of newness, be intentional about a deep self-assessment to set yourself up for success.
