by Frank Ling

Created on: June 18, 2008

I still remember the introductory words of my supervisor on the first day of my job. I was fresh out of college and pretty intimidated. His words of wisdom allowed me to grow and become a dedicated member of the staff, but I couldn't believe my ears. He said, "In the coming two weeks, I want you to make as many mistakes as you can. Don't worry. You won't get in trouble for any mistakes because how else are you going to learn your job well?"

That took a tremendous amount of pressure off of me. He was in essence saying, "Look, you're new. I know that and you know that. Just learn the job. I'll support you." You won't find this sort of wisdom in any textbooks, lectures or college courses. But a great deal of common wisdom comes from the mouths of people who understand human character and know how to encourage people to do better.

People generally want to do their best, and their worst fear is in making mistakes. One thing that needs to be stressed to new workers is that coming into a new environment and adapting properly does take time. Rembrandt didn't paint his great works of art from the get go. It took time before he became the master that he was. In the same manner, as managers and supervisors, we need to remember that we started out as new comers too. Letting new employees know that their job is a learning process will help to take off a ton of pressure and will definitely open lines of communication.

This same supervisor also said to me, "Be my shadow. Do what I do." In his short and to the point way, he was indicating that I could approach him when I needed to and learn from him. How succinct and encouraging! Often, our position as leaders sometimes gives us an aura that we're not aware of-inapproachability. Admittedly, some managers revel in this sort of fear factor in relating to new employees, but this sort of sentiment can only breed a sense of resentment with time.

Being accessible isn't always possible because of busy schedules, but letting a new employee know that you are approachable can do wonders in boosting morale. The closest analogy to this is the new kid at school. If you've ever been the "new kid," you most likely can remember how distant and alienated you felt during the first few weeks.

You made a few acquaintances and even a friend or two, but the real connection was probably a kind teacher who extended her hand to make you feel welcome. This simple lesson from school is also a good example in helping a new worker feel settled in their new work situation. While the idea of fitting in isn't new, it isn't implemented as much as it should be in our work places.

Outside of our immediately families, the workplace serves as our "second family." As a manager, can you make the experience of new people on your staff smoother by letting them know you are available and approachable for questions and concerns. It only takes a moment of your time but can help them adjust better to the job.

Most of us wouldn't think twice about praising our favorite sports heroes or movie stars; people that we don't know personally, but some of us have difficulty in encouraging our staff, which we see everyday, let alone new recruits. The power of praise cannot be underestimated or taken for granted, as a good word at the right time can really be a boost to someone who is unsure about their new job. But make sure the praise is genuine and not fabricated, as it will come off as being disingenuous.

The logic behind making someone feel at home doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out. A little common sense mixed in with some people skills will make you a better boss and help to make any new people on your staff feel more acclimated.

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