Working with us

Your transition to Adelaide University

Your transition to Adelaide University

A guide for new joiners

Congratulations on accepting your offer to join Adelaide University! We are thrilled to welcome you to our community.  

We know that moving to a new workplace can bring a mix of emotions – anticipation, excitement, curiosity and sometimes a sense of loss or uncertainty. We’ve put together some tips that we hope will help you to navigate this journey smoothly, celebrate where you have come from, and look forward with excitement to what’s ahead as you join us at Adelaide University.  

Leave your workplace on good terms 

Sharing the news with your manager and colleagues can feel a little daunting. It’s an important step and worth approaching thoughtfully so you can into go into these conversations feeling confident.

Before you speak with your leader, check your contract to ensure you’re across any requirements, such as notice periods and other conditions.  

If you are feeling trepidation about informing your leader, it might be reassuring to remind yourself that they’ve been in your shoes before. To make the conversation easier:  

  • Schedule a private meeting so you have their full attention.  
  • Be clear about your decision to leave, and express gratitude for the experience you’ve gained. 
  • Discuss next steps, including when they can expect your resignation letter and how you’ll support a smooth handover, such as documenting processes and projects that you’re a part of, and training your replacement or other team members. 
  • Agree on when it’s appropriate to share the news with colleagues, as there may be flow-on impacts to consider.  
  • Keep in mind that your news may come as a surprise, give your leader time to process the information, and let them know they can come back to you with any questions.  

Keep it short, professional and positive. Include your last official working date.  

We spend a lot of time at work, building relationships and working hard to achieve our goals. Take time to complete projects and activities thoughtfully, so you leave feeling everything is set up for continued success.  

Mark the occasion

Accepting a new role is an exciting milestone. Share the news with friends, family and colleagues who’ve supported you along the way, they’ll be thrilled to celebrate this achievement with you. You may even like to post to your socials!

Say goodbye – well!

Every transition is significant. Leaving an organisation or industry you’re familiar with or returning from a career break – transitions mark the end of one chapter and the start of another, and that’s why it’s important to say goodbye – well!

Take some time to reflect on the things you’ve learned and accomplished, and the people that have supported you.

Leaving behind familiar routines and networks can be challenging, as our brains naturally prefer predictability. It may help to remind yourself that your brain is working hard to adapt to these changes. Recognising that these moments of uncertainty can also be signs of personal growth may help you reframe this transition as a valuable part of your development journey.   

Take time to say goodbye and express your appreciation to valued colleagues and others who have been part of your journey. Make plans for how you’ll keep in touch once you leave.

Be curious 

Starting somewhere new can feel both exciting and daunting. Approaching the change with curiosity will help you to learn about and feel more confident in your new environment. 

Get in touch with your new people leader, colleagues, or our friendly People Services team at people@adelaide.edu.au or on (08) 8302 2220 with any questions.  

Join Adelaide University’s social channels to start to feel part of the community and get a sense for what we’re all about.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn

Instagram

Instagram

Explore Adelaide University’s website and familiarise yourself with the University, including everything from our strategy to campus maps and facilities.  

Look ahead with confidence 

Remember the reasons you’ve chosen to join us, what it is about your new role and Adelaide University that excites you, and know that you will be valued at AU. You are starting with us because of your skills, experience and the unique contributions we know you’ll bring. 

Use the time between roles to rest and recharge, starting fresh is easier when you’re energised.

Focus on the opportunities ahead and the impact you will be able to make. Think about what you’re gaining – new experiences, new connections, and new possibilities. 

Reach out to your new people leader, buddy, or team for a quick hello before your first day, and if you’re on LinkedIn, connect with them. 

 If you haven’t already, you might like to familiarise yourself with where you’ll be working and the facilities available by asking your new people leader for a quick tour of the workplace in advance of your first day.

If you haven’t already, you might like to familiarise yourself with where you’ll be working and the facilities available by asking your new people leader for a quick tour of the workplace in advance of your first day. 

And remember, give yourself time to settle in, adjusting takes patience and we are here to help!