How long does it take to learn a new job?

Updated on March 30, 2023
How long does it take to learn a new job

So you just started a new job and you are a bit anxious because you are new. Don’t worry, every job has a learning curve after all. Naturally, you might be wondering how long it will take you to learn the new job.

On average, it takes between 3 and 6 months to learn a new job well. This period corresponds to the probation period that most companies give to new recruits. Learning a new job highly depends on how dedicated you are to acquiring the necessary professional skills.

Most likely a supervisor or an experienced staff member will be assigned to train you. This will speed up your training and you will become a highly effective member of the team a lot sooner.

7 key tips on how to learn a new job

7 key tips on how to learn a new job

1. Listen to your trainer

Listen carefully to the person who has been assigned to train you. They probably have experience with this so simply trust them and follow their guidance.

They will give you specific instructions on what you should be doing.

2. Don’t be afraid to ask questions

You might be a little worried and anxious but don’t be afraid to communicate about the things that you don’t know or don’t understand.

Your trainer and other coworkers are aware that you are new and it will take you some time to learn the job.

3. Learn the basics

You will become familiar with your basic responsibilities from day one on the job. Do your best to focus on the basics. This way you will quickly master your most essential functions. Also, make sure not to be late for work.

4. Take things step by step

As a new hire, you are going through a probation period. So take it easy, don’t push yourself too hard. Focus on one thing at a time. Instead of stressing out, simply focus on the most basic tasks.

This way you will be able to adjust quickly and learn your new job.

5. Pay attention to experienced colleagues

See how your experienced coworkers are doing things. If given the chance observe what they are doing. Don’t be afraid to approach somebody if you have any questions.

They will be happy to provide you with all the information and support that you might need.

6. Focus on improving your skills

The best way to feel more confident when you are starting a new job is to be sure of yourself and your abilities.

You can do this by improving the essential skills that are required to do your job properly.

7. Unwind after work

Starting a new job can be stressful. When you commute or come back home, you might find yourself ruminating and stressing out.

However, this will do you no good. Do your best to distract yourself with activities that you love to do. Take a look at our complete guide on how to unwind after work.

How long is training for a new job?

Training for a new job might last from 2 weeks up to 2 or 3 months. It all depends on the complexity of the job and the necessary skill set that new recruits must acquire in order to become good at the job.

Usually, orientation for most types of office jobs is about 2 weeks, with a probation period of up to 3 months.

How long does it take to adjust to a new job?

Adjusting to a new job usually takes from 3 weeks to 2 months. Humans are creatures of habit. With every passing day at your new job, you will find yourself adjusting more and more.

Doing the same daily commute and seeing the familiar faces of coworkers every day will help you to adjust.

How long does it take to feel confident in a new job?

How long does it take to feel confident in a new job

Feeling more confident by getting up to speed in a new job can take from 3 weeks to a few months.

It all comes down to your professional skills and how well you are able to handle your main responsibilities.

Most professionals become more confident after a few weeks after they start a new job.

How long does it take to feel comfortable in a new job?

It will take you at least 3 weeks and up to 2 months to feel comfortable at a new job.

As you gain more and more experience with each workday and by becoming more familiar with your coworkers, you will start to feel more comfortable at your new job.

How long does it take to be productive in a new job?

You can be productive in a new job from the very first day. As part of your training, it is very likely that you will be given tasks that need to be handled anyway.

This means that you will already be an effective and productive member of the team.

However, becoming highly productive and autonomous in your job might take a few weeks. It all depends on how quickly you are learning and how confident you are in your abilities. The best part is that eventually, you should get a pay raise or ask for it yourself.

Is it normal to be slow at a new job?

It is perfectly normal to be a bit slow at first when you start a new job. Don’t worry because your manager and coworkers are aware of this and they will give you the necessary time to adjust to your new job and become fully functional on your own.

How long does new job anxiety last?

New job anxiety can last for 2 weeks and up to a month. The quality of the initial training that you will receive will also play an important role in eliminating your stress sooner rather than later. 

Your anxiety will gradually lessen with the passing of each new workday as you become more familiar with the job and your new colleagues. You can avoid being anxious by staying busy at work.

Focus on carrying out your duties and improving your professional skills. By gaining more and more work experience, you will become a lot more confident.

Eventually, you will pass through that initial new job anxiety phase. If you feel very anxious at work, you can take a look at our guide on how to make time at work go faster.

Written by:
OfficeTopics.com
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galin office topics square
co-founder / office worker
Galin has been an office worker for 8+ years. He has dealt will all kinds of situations at work, so he knows a thing or two about management, co-worker relationships, and productivity. Galin specializes in digital marketing and dabbles in web development.

2 comments on “How long does it take to learn a new job?”

  1. I think it depends on the person and the job. Some jobs come with a lot so duties, that sometimes change. Also, if the person is being trained by multiple people each person may do things differently. So these things can be time consuming.

  2. Thank you for your assessment on getting aquatinted with a new job. You were exactly right on the topic. I'm learning fast. I'm part-time so far and got over 42 hours mt 1st week. I'm learning fast because I love my job. [company name hidden for privacy reasons]. 2nd week.

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