Tips For Your Next Marketing Job
- March 29, 2021
7 Tips For Starting Your Next Marketing Job
Starting a new marketing role is usually an exciting experience, but it can be daunting too. Essentially, you’re still on trial and your first 3 – 6 months could be seen as an extension of the interview process. We have tried to put together a few tips to ensure you secure your long-term success and settle in as quickly as possible.
1. Be prepared, and don’t be afraid to ask!
There are lots of studies that show employees perform better and progress more quickly if they ask lots of (sensible) questions. Think carefully before you start about what you will need to know and try to send your questions in advance. For example, what’s the dress code? Where is information stored? What logins will you need? How does your new company like to operate? Is there anything you can research prior to joining that will help with your onboarding? Or even better, help take some of the pressure off your manager.
2. Make friends!
Smile and the world smiles back.
You’ve already made a great first impression with the people who interviewed you, now it’s time to meet the rest of the team. Hopefully the company you have joined will make a big effort to introduce you to the people you don’t know yet. Try to be enthusiastic and take the opportunity to speak to as many of the team as you can, even if it’s over video. Show an interest in what they do and how they fit into the team. If you’re working in an office, offer to make someone a tea or coffee, always a winner!
Think back to your interview, what were they struggling with? Is there anything you can do immediately to help ease whatever the pressure might be. If so, make a suggestion. Even if they don’t decide to take you up on it they’ll be impressed with your initiative and enthusiasm.
3. Check your journey and make sure you’re ready to go!
There are few things more stressful than arriving late for your first day. If you think there’s a chance you could get held up then leave early! If you’re not sure what method of transport is best, try them out first, do a trial run in rush hour. You’ll feel a lot more comfortable on your first day then.
If you’re working remotely, prepare your workspace and check your internet connection and equipment are all working properly.
4. Set expectations and make sure you’re 100% comfortable with what you’re doing.
This should possibly be number one on the list. For any new role to be successful, you and your new manager need absolute clarity on what you’re there for and what’s expected of you on a daily basis. How is success measured? What does your new company/boss think you are going to achieve in your first three months? Once you know these things you can focus your time on the priorities that really count. Most companies have either a 3 or 6 month probation, you may find it is helpful to have slightly more regular monthly, or even weekly check ins. This should allow for any teething problems to be ironed out before you get to your official review.
5. Get your finances in order
Make sure you ask your old employer for your P45 and supply all the info that your new company need to set you up on their payroll. Otherwise you can end up on emergency tax which is a hassle for everyone!
6. Research
You have obviously “checked out” the company before interviewing, but now they represent a new career and if you are serious you should now do some in depth research. Not to be a smart arse on day one but over the weeks and months ahead it will prove invaluable.
First go to Companies House and find out who really calls the shots. One day you may be chatting to someone in reception not knowing they actually own half the business!
Use LinkedIn and study the backgrounds of all the people you are likely to come into contact with. Look for shared contacts and experiences.
Check out the company’s clients and research the industry’s they operate in filling in the gaps in your knowledge bank.
7. Try not to upset the apple-cart
There is a danger when starting a new role to do too much, too soon. Although you may be well meaning in your intentions try not to interfere in other people’s business. We have seen examples of new employees coming in and upsetting the existing teams by trying to tell them there job. Even if you can see they’re not doing it efficiently, keep your own counsel and bring it up gently once you’ve settled in!
Likewise, make sure you earn the trust of your colleagues before making demands. Be careful not to ask for too much too soon. Most employers/bosses are willing to be flexible once you’ve proved yourself but making demands (whatever they may be) too early can go down very badly.
If you're looking for your next creative, marketing or digital role check out our jobs page here!