10 tips for starting in a new environment

The chance that the ideal job is around the corner from your current place of residence is of course not great. Fortunately, the Netherlands is a small country, where travel distances are often manageable. But what do you do when that is no longer the case? Or when it turns out that the dream job is in another country? Almost 30 percent of the Dutch working population considers moving for a new job. And only 14 percent actually take this step (CBS, 2019). Does fear of something new dominate, or are people creatures of habit? It is of course a big exciting step, with a lot involved.

Fortunately, we live in a time where remote working can be facilitated well. In these times, we could actually speak of a digital move. Yet, these many changes continue to cause thoughts such as: what if it doesn't work out? What if I don't meet nice people? Is it the right choice? What if I miss "home"? This blog gives you 10 tips that will help you take this step even easier and make you realize that it is not that scary at all.

Tip 1 Choose a place that not only suits your job, but also you as a person

Of course, this is not something everyone can choose, but it helps to have a good match for both a job and your personal interests. I chose an internship in a country and environment that appealed to me. Have you always dreamed of a job in a big city, or do you want to go to a small village in a natural environment? Make that choice for yourself, and you will feel at home faster and build a new routine more easily. For me, Amsterdam is synonymous with the many fun activities and sights that the city has to offer.

Tip 2: Get to know the place

Sounds cliché, but very true! Think for yourself what you would like to see, where you would like to go, where you would like to eat or what activity you would like to do again. Think in possibilities, so you will not quickly end up sitting on the couch and you will fill your time with all kinds of fun trips.

Tip 3 Focus on who and what you do know

No matter how far away or unknown the place is to you, there is always something or someone who can help you on your way. A distant friend, a niece of a neighbor, an old colleague, you name it. Look for those points of contact. If you really don't have any, you can always find them online. A Facebook group, a hashtag on Instagram or an online platform. Ask for experiences, tips and nice stories. This helps you to get a picture of your new situation and immediately ensures nice contacts.

Tip 4: Take your hobby with you

Do you like running, painting, cooking or are you a star player in your current hockey team? Take this with you to your new environment. This provides peace and regularity and helps you make new contacts.

Tip 5 Say yes!

Seize all the trips and activities, especially in the beginning. Do new colleagues ask you if you want to go out for a bite to eat together? Yes! Or do your new neighbors/housemates want to go out together? Yes! This way you build a new circle of friends/acquaintances and this can never hurt. From these acquaintances and activities you build a new routine

Tip 6 Be proactive and look it up

In addition to saying yes, it is also important to take a proactive attitude yourself, especially in the beginning. Organize fun outings with your team, be (pro) active in your contact with people around you. We bet that this will be mutually rewarded with all kinds of invitations to cool parties and fun?

Tip 7 Keep in touch with home, but not too much

In a new situation it may seem tempting to reach for the phone during every free moment and call home. However, it is good to go out and not be too busy with contact. When you don't speak to each other for a while, the contact only becomes more fun.

Tip 8 If you do speak to them, invite them!

If you do have the home front on the line, invite them right away! How nice is it to share your new surroundings with others? Show friends and family what your new home has become, what your favorite restaurants are and which places they should not and may not miss when visiting your new place of residence. We bet they can't wait to come back again?

Tip 9 Create a nice new home of your own

Invest time and energy in creating a new environment where you feel good. A nice house, in a nice place, that is decorated to your own taste can help with this.

Tip 10 ENJOY!

Don't forget to enjoy what you do. Your new job, the new people and the great experiences. Mindset is key, focus on the positive and be proud of yourself for taking this courageous step!

Want to know more about starting a new job? Contact our Corporate Recruiter Celine van der Wal via celine.van.der.wal@babbage.nl or 06-11477917.