I remember the first time I started managing a team. I was so proud to land the job, but absolutely terrified I was going to f*** it up.
Starting a new job can feel SCARY!
The pressure of wanting to be liked by everyone sometimes got in the way of actually doing the job, and I was scared to have difficult conversations. It took me a long time to settle into my role, but luckily my manager at the time believed in me, and I eventually found my way.
Turns out this ageing millennial was ahead of her time, because many Gen Z professionals are now experiencing crippling probation period anxiety. They report more than double the amount of psychological distress compared to their millennial and Gen X colleagues.
So, what can help take the edge off those nerves?
First, remind yourself of your strengths and achievements. You were hired for a reason. When anxiety creeps in, it’s easy to forget the skills, experience and potential that got you through the door in the first place. Writing these down or keeping a record of positive feedback can help ground you when self-doubt starts to spiral.
Second, make a conscious effort to build relationships and networks. Feeling connected at work can dramatically reduce anxiety. That doesn’t mean trying to be everyone’s best friend, but it does mean having a few trusted people you can ask questions, sense-check decisions with, or simply chat to when things feel overwhelming.
Third, give yourself permission to be new. You are not expected to know everything immediately, and mistakes are part of learning. Setting realistic expectations for yourself, asking questions early, and reframing “I don’t know yet” as a temporary state rather than a failure can make a huge difference.
It was great to share thoughts on this with Metro recently, including practical ways to manage anxiety and build confidence during those early, uncertain months in a new role.
If you’re looking for more support with your career, you can find out more about how I work with people here.
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