Thriving in Your First Month at a New Job: A Kenyan Success Story

When James Ngugi, a recent graduate from Kenyatta University, landed an entry-level job with Safaricom, he was over the moon. Like many job seekers in Kenya, he had spent months sending CVs via email and walking into offices in the Industrial Area, hoping to catch a break. Finally, he had made it. But the real challenge lay ahead—surviving and thriving in his new role.

The First Day Jitters

James’s first day was a whirlwind. The morning was filled with introductions, a stack of onboarding materials, and trying to remember numerous names. The whole process was overwhelming, and by lunchtime, he felt like a fish out of water. But James knew he wasn't alone in this feeling. Many young professionals in Kenya encounter a similar experience, and the key is to navigate it with a strategic mindset.

Embracing the Learning Curve

Every job comes with a learning curve, and James quickly realized that Safaricom was no exception. His role required skills that were new to him, such as using advanced Excel functions and managing customer relations. Instead of feeling defeated, James:

• Took Initiative: He made it a point to ask questions and seek advice from his more experienced colleagues. Kenyan work culture often values collaboration and mentorship, and James found that by showing genuine interest, he unlocked valuable insights from his peers.
• Used Online Resources: Platforms like BrighterMonday and Fuzu became his go-to for quick courses in Excel and customer service skills, conveniently accessed during his commute using his phone and M-Pesa for transactions.

Building Effective Relationships

Networking within the company was another challenge, but it was crucial for James's success. The first month was the time to lay the groundwork for strong professional relationships. He adopted several strategies:

• Joining Group Activities: Safaricom often organized team-building exercises and informal meet-ups. By participating actively, James not only broke the ice with his team but also built rapport across departments.
• LinkedIn Networking: He updated his LinkedIn profile to reflect his new role and connected with co-workers and industry leaders. This helped him stay informed about industry trends and opportunities within the company.

Managing Personal Expectations

Balancing work and personal life was another hurdle. James had to manage his expectations, especially concerning the financial aspects like managing his HELB loan repayments and adjusting to his new salary. He focused on:

• Budgeting Wisely: With the initial salary, he prioritized essentials and used M-Pesa for seamless transactions, avoiding unnecessary debt.
• Setting Realistic Goals: Instead of aiming for immediate promotions, he focused on skill development and performance improvement.

Finding Support and Mentorship

Throughout his first month, James realized the importance of mentorship. He registered for an internal mentorship program where he was paired with a senior employee who guided him on career development and navigating company culture.

The Takeaway

James’s first month at Safaricom was a rollercoaster of emotions, from excitement to self-doubt and eventually, confidence. His story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the Kenyan job market. For every Kenyan youth, graduate, or professional stepping into a new role, remember James's journey: embrace learning, build relationships, and manage your expectations. With these strategies, not only can you survive your first month, but you can also set the stage for a thriving career in Kenya's vibrant job market.