Settling into a new job: the first three months

Where possible take up opportunities to get more involved. Whether that is taking on a new project or attending a work social event. Getting to know your colleagues in different settings will help you to feel more settled.

It can take some time to build up a new support network. Read more here on how to deal with loneliness and isolation.

Most companies might have specific short-hands for processes and methods for doing things. Do not be afraid to ask if you are unsure about something. Remember that everyone was in your position once.

Your line manager will be able to help you with any questions. Many larger companies will also assign you a mentor or buddy so do not be afraid to reach out to them also.

It may take time to feel like you are settling in, so do not put too much pressure on yourself straight away. Be sure to practice self-compassion.

You may also find yourself comparing yourself to your friends in other jobs or to colleagues who started at the same time as you. Try to avoid this sort of thinking. You can find more guidance on avoiding ‘compare and despair’ thinking here.

Your routine will have been significantly shaken up. Working full-time hours for five days a week can be really tiring, especially if this is something new. You may also have a long and unpleasant commute which adds to the length of the working day.

Allow yourself space and time to settle into this routine. Find a way to switch off from work in the evenings and at the weekend. Minimise work chat and avoid checking your emails. Look after your digital health by switching off.

Think about starting or resuming a hobby. This could be an evening class or joining a sports team. Or it might simply be going for a run, cooking from scratch, or finding time to read. This will help you set up healthy habits for a work-life balance, and may lead to new friendships outside the workplace.

If your company encourages working from home, you will face different challenges. There are some advantages of course. The lack of a commute will free up your time and you will be working from the comfort of your own home.

But it could be harder to build meaningful relationships with your colleagues, and you may not get as much support in learning new skills. Working from home can also make it even more difficult to switch off in the evenings and set up clear boundaries in your work-life balance.

Apart from the stresses of starting a new job, you will also be facing challenges from outside of the workplace.

You may be struggling financially as your student loan and grants are no longer available, and you are waiting for your first paycheck. When the paycheck comes it feels like it immediately goes on paying back debts or towards new costs such as paying for the commute or rent.

This guide has talked through some common struggles many people deal within their first three months in the workplace. That is not to say that this is all-encompassing or that after three months you will magically feel better.

Your mental wellbeing in the workplace can be influenced by many factors. Whilst the stress and change of starting a new job for the first time undoubtedly will affect you, it is likely you will continue to face challenges.