How To Get Organised in a New Company

by Jalil Khan
(lahore pakistan)

I am working in a solar energy company which is newly established. There are so many problems to deal with, such as a lack of staff. It is a new market and there are many other challenges....how can I handle this situation?

Ann's Comments...
Hi Jalil

I was involved in a start-up situation as well, some years ago. I can understand that you might feel overwhelmed with all that has to be done, and wonder where is the best place to start!

I believe it is a great situation to be in - you can set up systems that work for you. It is so much harder to make changes in the workplace when people have been there for a long period of time.

Communication and Planning is key in a situation like this. You need to create dialogue with key players in the company. And you need to be proactive, not reactive.
I would start with the senior team. Ideally it is good to meet them on a one to one, because you can get more information than in a group setting. Prepare a list of probing questions, which include:

1) What do you think are the key problems that need to be addressed - as a company/in your department/in other areas of the company?

2) What changes will be happening in the future, that involve systems, equipment or new staff?

3) What help or development do you need on a personal level to carry out your job?

This structured interview takes on average 30 - 60 minutes but a lot depends on your situation.

Carry this approach down to the next level of management. Also aim to interview a selection of people at all levels in the company to get their views, depending on the size of the company and the time you have for this work.

Then.. gather your information. Add to it any useful metrics such as customer complaints, downtime, absenteeism - that indicate problem areas.

Don't let this work take too long, as your information may get out of date. Set aside a period of time and focus on it.
You will be able to see the priorities that need to be addressed. Decide whether the solution calls for training or some other intervention.

Prepare a report containing your findings and recommendations and present it to the senior team. Ideally include a cost/benefit analysis.

There should be no surprises. Your aim is to get the senior team to commit to a plan of action for the months ahead.

Revisit it regularly and update.

If you don't have the resources to do this work, or you need help, there are outside consultants (I could help!) who could do this work as a project for you. Sometimes it is good to get an outside viewpoint.

I hope this gives you something to think about. I welcome any ideas from other visitors to the site..

Best of luck
Ann