Starting a new job is exciting. However, there are also a lot of unknowns when you first come into a workplace and begin handling your duties. It isn’t uncommon for professionals to feel a bit uncertain and, in some cases, even underqualified for the job that’s now their responsibility.
However, feeling underqualified doesn’t mean you aren’t worthy of the position. Instead, you may need to reframe your way of thinking and take steps to get yourself acclimated. If you want to know how to deal with the situation, here are some tips that can help.
Remember That You Were Hired for a Reason
Unless you were disingenuous during the hiring process, the hiring manager brought you on board because they felt your experience and skills aligned with the role. You’ve been fully vetted, and your boss genuinely believes you’re the best fit for the position.
Even if you don’t have every skill, the hiring manager is aware of what you bring to the table. That means they’re typically comfortable with you needing time to acclimate to your responsibilities and learn the ins and outs of the job. Remember that they think you have potential, which means you are likely more qualified than you realize.
Know That You Aren’t Expected to Reach Full Productivity Immediately
While you might feel that you should be able to tackle everything right away, there’s a good chance your hiring manager’s expectations aren’t quite as lofty as your own. Instead, they know that most new hires need time to get up to speed, and they’re likely willing to give you a reasonable amount of time for that to happen.
If you have doubts in this arena, speak with your manager when you begin in the role and ask about their expectations for the first 30, 60, and 90 days. Often, this will show you that they expect some progression to take time, which could put your mind at ease.
Get Comfortable with Asking Questions – And Take Notes
Practically no one knows everything about a job when they first start in the role. Since that’s the case, be ready to ask questions. You won’t be viewed as a bother if what you’re asking is well thought out and genuinely requires guidance from your manager or a colleague. Instead, they’ll appreciate that you’re proactively looking for answers.
Just make sure that you also take notes when you ask questions or receive any form of guidance. That ensures you won’t have to ask the same thing twice and gives you information you can reference later if needed.
Use Feeling Underqualified to Your Advantage
While it may seem counterintuitive, feeling underqualified can actually be an asset. It may give you the push you need to dedicate yourself to training, accept guidance offered, and collect insights from those around you. Essentially, it encourages you to keep learning, and that can help you go from a new hire to a top performer in less time.
Contact Our Recruiters Today
Ultimately, all of the tips above can make a difference if you’re feeling underqualified after starting a new job. If you’d like to find out more, the team at Selectek wants to hear from you. Contact us today.
