There are a number of steps to take to prepare yourself for your new job:

1. Know your environment. If possible, visit your new workplace or connect with your new manager prior to commencing work to find out more about the culture and what you can expect on the first day.

Once you start, get to know your colleagues and remain alert to the cultural norms and style of the organisation. That is, be aware of the ways things are done around here.
 

2. Define responsibilities, expectations and issues clearly. Take time to review with your manager the business needs and your role in fulfilling these. Agree on what ‘success’ looks like and how it will be measured.

Some questions you may ask are:

• What am I responsible for?
• What are the short and long term expectations?
• What are the business priorities?
• What reporting and support mechanisms are in place?
• What are the main challenges in the role?
• Which key people should I meet?
• What procedural, informational and meeting expectations will apply to me?
• What resources are available to me?
• How does my role fit in with others?
• What can I do to help make my colleagues jobs easier?