"New job" woes...

[Rascal1]

I'm so very fortunate to have found a new job after not working since last April.(I was busy working on my recovery). I have not shared that with them.

But it's a huge struggle getting back in sync. I've been there a month and still feel very insecure and get easily flustered. My co-worker and office mate only tells me,"it's a busy place ! " , "it takes time". But I feel ...sooo brain dead. I'm supposed to be the RN,Clinical Case Coordinator, but my confidence is steadily sinking....... Also, my office mate who I share duties with,offers me no tips,suggestions,or ideas,except,"it's a really busy place!" I don't sense any commitment to showing me how she learned the job routine,company policies,meetings etc. a year ago when she started there. When I ask her to review how to get the reports,etc., we need to retrieve she says,"Oh,we'll have more time tommorrow,because....blah..blah. But "tommorow" never arrives,other duties,meetings take priority. What do I do in this situation ?? I think I need a class in interpersonal skills,as well ..:cry:

[jackstem]

No orientation for the new employee? That seems to be increasing across the country. Policy manuals? Employee handbook? Discuss your frustrations and concerns with your supervisor?

As addicts we jump to the conclusion that we are somehow "less than" when it comes to work situations, whether it's returning to an old job or entering a new one. You obviously impressed someone since they hired you. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness or incompetence. I'd much rather hire an employee who knows their limitations and is willing to ask for help, than someone who doesn't know their limitations or think they don't have any.

Your office-mate might feel threatened by your presence. Some folks withhold information in order to feel in control or powerful. It seems to happen frequently in nursing and I'm not sure why. I noticed it less when I entered anesthesia practice. Don't be shy about expressing your need for more orientation. As a supervisor, I always encouraged questions.

One day at a time applies to every area of our recovery AND life. You can't become an instant success in any new endeavor. As addicts we always want everything NOW! Be gentle with yourself.

Keep us posted!

Jack