... to think it's really difficult for people starting new jobs at the moment

[PrincessOfTheDork]

Before asking I need to give some context: I've recently had to change job and started in a new position. I was working at from home first few weeks, but offices opened again from start of Aug. So it is a new job, new location, new people. I'd estimate over 150 people here, it's business/tech area, 70% male, I'm certainly among the oldest here.

I'm finding it really hard to settle here, get to know some people, figure out how things work.

Any experiences from people that have started new jobs since the lockdown? Did you find it hard starting in a new place?

I should add that the company is aware of the issues with new employees settling in; they've hired a lot of people in the past year.

My manager has assigned to offer a handhold/buddy to the new employees, but mine has been frankly useless. Actually the mail from my manager she mentions a handjob for all new hires, rather than handhold, DH got a great laugh from that :)

I was made redundant from one job in the summer and started a much much better one, in a large, much loved national charity, 4 weeks later.

I'm 55 and was worried I might find it all a but much- but I'm absolutely loving it!

I really think what you describe is to be somewhat expected. It does take a while to settle in a new company and role. The age and gender differences might also contribute. In summary, focus on your work and as you work with people you'll get to know the system better.

That's a funny typo! BTW, I'm not surprised it's mostly male is there is a handjob for all the new hires. Doesn't help you really

Also, could you ask your manager for a new buddy/handhold person? What's wrong with that person? If they've been assigned to help you, it should be part of their job to do that.

Well a handjob should certainly break the ice!

I don't think I'll ask for a new buddy. There is nothing wrong with him per se (male, late 20s), we just have very little in common and no rapport, and I'm old enough to be his mom.

@helentomelon the handhold (handjob) offer is the new employees, so while it might break the ice, it's me who should be receiving :) Not sure what the equivalent is for it??

Anyway, I'm happily married and 20 years older, so handhold will do for now.

Do they have a formal on boarding session for new hires? That’s a good way to meet other new hires.

There is a formal onboarding, but that happened my first week or two which were from home via Teams. I will say it's easier being in the office than at home (even though the commute is not good, worse than I thought)