Tips When Starting a New Job in the Oil and Gas Industry
According to OGUK’s 2019 Workforce Report, the Oil and Gas industry remains a rewarding career choice employing over 259,900 workers last year, across the UK offshore industry. The industry supports jobs throughout the UK, with 56% of total industry employment located in England, 39% in Scotland, 4% in Wales and 1% in Northern Ireland.
As First Recruitment Group have been working in the Oil and Gas industry for over 22 years, we’ve put together a selection of simple tips to help you thrive in your next career move.
Be open to training and development opportunities
Demand for skills is shifting in the Oil and Gas industry, as the sector adapts to incorporate new technologies and new ways of working.
According to a report by Energy skills body OPITO, an estimated 25,000 new people will be required in the UK Oil and Gas industry by 2025, as well as the upskilling of 'a substantial portion' of existing workers.
Though mentioning skills development when joining a new company may feel like jumping the gun, showing that you are open to training and upskilling opportunities is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to the business, and could potentially kick-start a new path for your career development.
Make connections within the business
So you’ve found the perfect job, smashed the interview stage(s) and have been offered a contract… but now what? Before starting a new job in the Oil and Gas industry, take a bit of time to really get to know the business, and more importantly your new co-workers, including the key players within the business.
Another way to get a head start and be proactive is to connect with existing employees on LinkedIn, the number one business networking site around the world. There are almost 6 million Oil and Energy professionals currently live on LinkedIn globally, so it’s a great way to gain insights into the kinds of people you are likely to be working with, along with the Oil and Gas industry in general.
Ask simple and relevant questions
Although you may have a strong Oil & Gas background, every company is different in some way, so it’s always best to gain as many insights as you can in order to succeed in your new role, not forgetting it’s better to know too much than not enough.
“What’s your name again?”
“What’s the process for this?”
“Who would I speak to in regards to this?”
These are all relevant questions when starting a new job. It doesn’t matter how simple they may seem, in order to do your job right, they’re all things you need to know.
Ashlea Harland, a Principal Recruitment Consultant at First, said, “Ask everybody their name, and don’t feel rude if you need to ask again and again! It’s normal not to remember everybody’s name.”
It’s the same principle for questions in general. If you are unsure on something, take the opportunity, especially within the first few weeks, to clear anything up. Asking questions is a great way to prove you’re invested in the job as you want to gain as much knowledge on the role as possible.
Be approachable and be a team player
Another thing to note is it’s always good to offer your teammates help if you have the time. It not only provides a good opportunity to get to know others and the parts they play in keeping the business afloat, but also confirms you are a team player. It shows you are invested in the company’s mission and goals and you want to be a part of their success.
Have confidence and own your role
Nobody is better at your job than you, that’s why you landed the position. Be confident, take ownership of every aspect of the job, and if you have a suggestion on how to better improve a process or speed up efficiency, speak up. This is a prime example of ensuring you are a valued member of the team.
Our Oil and Gas Recruiter, Lewis Bowdler, added, “Many skills are transferable for those who have previously worked in Engineering, so you shouldn’t find it daunting by starting a new, perhaps different role within the Oil and Gas sector.”
Quick fire dos and don’ts
Do: Make sure you’re up to date on the company policies. Be sure to check the dress code and any policies you may need to be aware of.
Don’t: Run before you can walk. Get to know your colleagues before getting too involved in “office banter”.
Do: Ask questions. No matter how big or small, there’s always someone willing to help.
Don’t: Keep quiet when you hit a bump. Chances are, people will be more than willing to help.
Do: Be friendly and courteous to everyone you meet. First impressions count!
Start your journey today
Here at First Recruitment Group, we guide our candidates through the recruitment process to help them find their next role.
LATEST OIL & GAS JOBS: Take a look at our latest jobs in the Oil and Gas industry here and start your new career journey today.
