Workplace Dynamics

Experiencing success in the first reentry job is crucial. It is, quite literally, the foundation for all future work-related endeavors. If the job seeker has taken the time to outline their Job Search Objective, they know that landing this initial job was not random; instead, it is part of their overall work/life plan. Furthermore, they know this is not their forever job, that it’s an entry point where they start.

Once this position has been secured, the focus shifts from getting it to keeping it. At this point, the objectives are doing the work, achieving modest workplace success, and building work-related connections. Superstardom is out, as is coming in last. For most reentering folks, solid, stable, consistent performance works best.

But there’s so much more happening on this first job besides the work itself. Beyond accomplishing assigned duties, there will likely be many situations that require heads-up navigation. Just doing the work can be the least demanding part of succeeding.

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Here’s a list of 15 challenges related to workplace culture and dynamics that can trip up someone's success at their first reentry job. These types of situations could, of course, impact any worker. However, they can be particularly harsh for those with background baggage. Therefore, taking a 360-degree view of all that could happen is the right preemptive move.

1. Stigma and prejudice: Colleagues may hold preconceived notions or biases about individuals with criminal records or addiction histories.

2. Trust issues: Coworkers and supervisors may hesitate to trust an employee with a troubled past, especially in roles involving sensitive information or financial responsibilities.

3. Social exclusion: Employees with background challenges might be excluded from social interactions or informal networking opportunities.

4. Overcoming imposter syndrome: Feeling like they don't belong or aren't worthy of their position can be particularly acute for those with troubled backgrounds.

5. Navigating workplace politics: Understanding unwritten rules and power dynamics can be challenging, especially if previous experiences were in very different environments.

6. Communication barriers: Adjusting to professional communication norms may be difficult, mainly if past experiences were in less formal settings.

7. Handling workplace conflicts: Resolving disagreements professionally might be challenging if past coping mechanisms were unhealthy or aggressive.

8. Dealing with triggers: Workplace stress or certain situations might trigger memories or behaviors related to past struggles.

9. Balancing disclosure: Deciding how much to share their background with colleagues can be a constant source of stress.

10. Performance anxiety: Fear of making mistakes and reinforcing negative stereotypes can lead to excessive stress and underperformance.

11. Adapting to structure: Adjusting to workplace routines and hierarchies might be difficult, especially after incarceration or unemployment.

12. Managing time and priorities: Balancing work responsibilities with ongoing recovery or legal obligations can be challenging.

13. Handling feedback: Constructive criticism might be perceived as personal attacks due to heightened sensitivity or past experiences.

14. Building professional relationships: Forming trusting, professional bonds with colleagues and supervisors might be difficult due to fear of judgment or rejection.

15. Navigating technology: Depending on the length of absence from the workforce, adapting to new technologies and digital workflows could be challenging.

My approach begins by helping each reentering person see themselves as a Free Agent, Selling their Service in the Marketplace. Absorbing these concepts assists with achieving their Job Search Objective by landing the right job -and- retaining and advancing on this most essential step in their work/life plan.

The importance of preparing for a full range of developments and difficulties during this first job is hard to overstate.

Things are sure to come up.

Stuff always happens.

Plan for it.

Onward!