Harriette Cole: I’m worried about the rules of my new job

DEAR HARRIETTE: The prospect of starting my new job is a little intimidating.

After years in a role with plenty of freedom and lenient management, I feel like I’m about to enter the deep end of a totally new environment. I’m sure there will be rules and regulations that I’ll have to follow, and a clear structure of authority. This is a lot different from the relaxed approach I’m used to.

Maybe that’s a good thing; I may be pushed to work hard and achieve more.

I guess the big question is: Can I handle the change and make this work? How do I ensure that I won’t be overwhelmed by the demands?

New Job

DEAR NEW JOB: Read the employee manual for your new company closely. Pay attention to the people who work there as well, and notice what the norms are. It will take time to figure out the company’s culture, but you can do it.

When in doubt, ask questions. Make alliances with people at all levels of your company. This will help you gain an understanding of how the system there works. Be upfront with your boss about how you worked in the past and what is new for you here. Express your sincere interest in learning the expectations and practices at your new company.

Check in regularly to see if your work is matching those expectations. Being proactive will help you learn and show your boss and team that you intend to become a part of the culture.

DEAR HARRIETTE: I’m working a job that has experienced lots of layoffs and cutbacks in the past few months. I myself had to agree to a significant pay cut in order to keep my job.

Now, every time the bosses ask to meet with me, I have a moment of panic. I don’t know if we are going to do our regular work or if they are going to show me the door. I hate the tense feeling I have that things are not going to work out.

I love this company and the leadership. I also don’t have time to look for a job. We are working with a bare-bones team with all hands on deck. I hardly have time to sleep, let alone look for work.

Am I wrong to be going all in for them rather than seeking ways to protect myself? What should I do?

Too Loyal

DEAR TOO LOYAL: Consider requesting a meeting with your bosses to take the temperature of the situation now.

Express your commitment to the company and your concerns about the future. Be transparent with them. Tell them that you want to give your all to them, but you worry every time they contact you that it could be your last day. Ask them to tell you their intentions about you.

If they think you may be laid off, ask if they would do their best to give you some time to find another job. Admit that you have no time to job-hunt while you are giving your all to them.

Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.