DISCUSSIONS

I recently started a new job and onboarding has been terrible.

Anonymous Image

Anonymous

Welcome to Fairygodboss!

We’re the largest online career community helping women achieve their career goals. Gain access to articles, jobs, events, and a supportive network of women and allies. Membership is free, always.

I recently started a new job and onboarding has been terrible.

It’s my second week on the job and I have no clue what I’m supposed to be doing. I haven’t had much of an onboarding the ED gave me a bunch of materials to read up about their programs and a list of names of people on the team and what they do. I had 1:1s with everyone on the list read all the materials. I’ve tried to ask ppl if their are tasks I can assist them with and I’ve tried to jump in and start PMing projects but I’m facing a lot of resistance from the existing employees. I had a talk with the ED and she said she is looking for me to “drive my own projects” which would be fine if I knew what I was supposed to be working on. Most days I sit at my desk with nothing to do and it’s draining me. Overall the culture has been everyone does a little bit of everything to get a project going. No one truly owns anything and there are no timelines and no accountability. This is supposed to be why they hired me but I don’t know how to infiltrate this existing culture of chaos. Any advice on how I can try to onboard myself more?

Why women love us:

  • Daily articles on career topics
  • Jobs at companies dedicated to hiring more women
  • Advice and support from an authentic community
  • Events that help you level up in your career
  • Free membership, always

Like

10 comments

Share

Share your insight

Join an authentic community that helps women support each other at work. Share your professional experience or ask for advice — you can even post anonymously.

10 Comments

Join the conversation
  1. Amy Miller, Psy.D. - Career Coach

    She is the purpose of this organization or company? What are their goals? Who is your boss?

  2. Anonymous

    It’s a non profit that works with educators to implement entrepreneurial curriculum in the classroom. The ED (executive director) is my boss. Their goals are to increase the number of educators they work with to expand the impact of the organization.

  3. Amy Miller, Psy.D. - Career Coach

    I think you should spend some time really clarifying the goals of your job. If you have questions, ask them. It sounds like you may know the goals though. But perhaps your boss DOES want you to take charge, and you might not want to worry as much about what the others think. But always go back to goals/purpose. If you have a project idea that can lead to increasing participation by X number of educators, then you might as well move forward and implement it. I am unsure what you mean by "not know what I am supposed to be working on" because you are saying you ARE supposed to be working on increasing the number of educators. If whatever you do results in that outcome, you are working on the right thing. I liked the comment here that says that you are supposed to be a leader and its your opportunity to shine!

  4. Anonymous

    Let your ED know that since you are new to the organization, you need some guidance at this point because you don't want to step on any toes with the current PMS. Try providing her with list of ideas and very specific questions about current or new projects and how you see yourself engaging with them. Assure her that you are more than capable, but you want to start off on the right foot with your colleagues.

  5. Anonymous

    Maybe they are looking for you to get them organized, be the leader. This is your opportunity to shine.

    Make a list, think about suggestions- have SOMETHING to bring to the table

  6. Anonymous

    Make a list of things you see needs to be done, and what you can do to help the other PMs and take it to the ED for them to prioritize or suggest a different tack. Were you put in to lead the other PMs or are they peers? It's not clear from what you have posted. My humble opinion is the ED would want you to collaborate equally with the other PMs or else lead them out of the chaos.

  7. Anonymous

    Gosh this sounds like a nonprofit.

    I would make a list of questions and break down your job description. Then find a peer that seems to share the same job title and responsibilities. Block off some time and explain yiu are looking for the best way you can contribute.

    This is not a place where you wait for direction or assignments. You are going to need to be proactive it seems.

    Once you have a clearer view of what your job entails meet with your manager and let them know your understanding of your duties and what you plan on working on to sure you two are on the same page.

  8. Anonymous

    Sorry to hear that your start at your new job is so frustrating. If possible, try to get to know a manager or lead person who could informally act as your coach or mentor. See what you can find out online about how employees get themselves settled there.

  9. Anonymous

    My God, Lady!!!!!!!! You literally just described at least my last two jobs and potential jobs I have interviewed for. I'm like what happened to a learning curve and proper 30/60/90 day onboarding processes??? It's almost like they want you to develop a whole new department on your own. Reading the comments now for my own help and solution.

  10. Anonymous

    Coming back to update this thread now that it’s been 6 months on this job. I’ve been able to create more projects for myself by volunteering to take over one program that was not originally in my JD and taking over a project to redevelop the orgs CRM. Also not in my JD. My executive director is also asking me to develop my own goals which I can do that but I feel like it’s a little backwards. The culture has been a challenge to get used to but I’m getting to know others and figuring out how to best make an impact. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this topic.

Browse recent posts

jljl3ph
Plan construction projects with the Concrete Calculator, a practical online tool for estimating material quantities, calculating concrete requirements, managing costs, and simplifying building work.
Hiii everyone!
I'm. Current looking for remote jobs
Your trusted partner for a cleaner, healthier home in Los Angeles, California. At Quick Clean Carpet Care, we've been providing top-notch carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, pet accident treatment, hard floor cleaning, rug cleaning, window cleaning, and house washing services for over 9 years. Our team of experts uses eco-friendly solutions and state-of-the-art equipment to leave your home sparkling clean and germ-free. From stain removal to deep cleaning, we've got you covered. Serving Los Angeles and surrounding areas, we're committed to delivering exceptional customer service and unparalleled results. Call us today to schedule your appointment and experience the Quick Clean difference!
Your trusted partner for a cleaner, healthier home in Los Angeles, California. At Quick Clean Carpet Care, we've been providing top-notch carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, pet accident treatment, hard floor cleaning, rug cleaning, window cleaning, and house washing services for over 9 years. Our team of experts uses eco-friendly solutions and state-of-the-art equipment to leave your home sparkling clean and germ-free. From stain removal to deep cleaning, we've got you covered. Serving Los Angeles and surrounding areas, we're committed to delivering exceptional customer service and unparalleled results. Call us today to schedule your appointment and experience the Quick Clean difference!
See more
Fairygodboss VIP
Achieve your career goals.
Be part of the largest online career community for women to find jobs, advice, and support — for free.
Fairygodboss members