Here is a little something you might not know about me. Not only am I working full-time, but I’m also writing a part-time PhD looking at Alice in Wonderland and gaming.
Seven weeks ago, I walked into our lovely office in the heart of Nottingham as the new girl and channelled my inner Alice. She goes through many different experiences during her time in Wonderland, from meeting the Cheshire Cat to the Red Queen.
So, what did I learn from her in starting my new job? And what lessons can you learn from Lewis Carroll’s heroine?
1. Be curious
Alice is known for always asking questions and for exploring new things.
This is the exact attitude you need when starting a new job. Be curious about your new role, your team members, and the company culture.
2. Be adaptable
Alice deals with a lot of changes in Wonderland, from shrinking to growing to shapeshifting.
This is the same in a new job, especially in a busy workplace like we have here. You must be able to multitask, adapt to different clients, and face new opportunities every day. Be willing to learn new things and to step outside of your comfort zone.
3. Be creative
Wonderland is a place where anything is possible.
When starting a new job, don’t be afraid to use your creativity to solve problems and come up with new ideas. Thinking outside the box might be something that could really help.
Your employer decided to hire you because of the answers you gave in your interview. They know you can bring something new to what they are doing!
4. Be brave
Alice faces many challenges in Wonderland, but she never gives up. She faces her fears and keeps going.
In a new job, there will be times when you feel overwhelmed. The challenges will be hard, and you’ll get a complete sense of imposter syndrome. But be brave and face these head on.
Also, be open and honest with your manager. You might find out they feel or felt the same!
Just because you started this new adventure, doesn’t mean you are on your own. You are part of a company and a team for a reason.
5. Don’t take yourself too seriously
Wonderland is a place where the absurd is often the norm.
Don’t be afraid to have fun in your new job, have a laugh and make friends. Having a positive friendly attitude will go a long way in making a good impression.
6. Be yourself
Alice doesn’t try to shy away from herself and be someone she isn’t. She accepts herself for who she is, even though she is different from the others.
It is important to be your true authentic self and be genuine. Having a “work’” persona is not only hard to keep up but also doesn’t show the real you. Don’t be someone you aren’t, just to fit in with the crowd.
7. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Alice asks for help from the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, and other characters in Wonderland.
This is probably the best piece of advice you can learn from Alice. It is OK to ask for help from your team.
Don’t be afraid to admit you are unsure about something or need some assistance. Everyone in the company was in your shoes at some point, so will know exactly how you are feeling.
8. Enjoy the journey
Alice has a lot of fun in Wonderland, even though she faces some challenges.
Enjoy the journey. Let me let you into a little secret: it will be a rollercoaster of emotions. Take the time to learn and grow, and ask for feedback – this is one of the best ways to continue to develop in your new role. Celebrate your successes along the way.
Get in touch
If you’d like help celebrating your success, Jess and the social media team would love to help! You can get in touch with a member of our team by emailing social@theyardstickagency.co.uk or calling 0115 8965 300.
