After months of searching for an internship, I finally found the perfect opportunity. I was thrilled after receiving the acceptance letter but was also filled with apprehension about diving into a remote position for the first time. As a hands-on learner, I wondered how I would adapt and absorb everything from a distance.
Starting any new job is always a bit scary. Learning new processes, understanding team dynamics, and adapting to a new workflow is never easy. The fear of the unknown can be daunting. However, little did I know, the onboarding process would be a delightful surprise, filled with warmth and support, making my transition smoother than I ever imagined. With a minor in Human Resource Management, I was particularly attentive to the onboarding experience, and I was pleasantly impressed by every aspect of it.
A Warm Welcome
Even before my very first day, I felt welcomed. Diane, Megan, and the whole team made a concerted effort to ensure that I was comfortable and felt part of the team. This warmth was evident in the little things they did, such as following up on my wisdom teeth surgery a week prior to even starting. Gestures like sending birthday cards electronically and offering flexible working hours, no questions asked, spoke volumes about the team’s culture and their genuine care for each other.
I was particularly impressed by how organized everything was. The onboarding process was meticulously planned, from the initial welcome emails to the detailed training schedules. The team’s coordination and attention to detail were evident, making the entire experience seamless. This level of organization was refreshing and set a positive tone for my internship.
Navigating Remote Work
Adapting to a remote work environment was one of my biggest concerns. However, the team’s well-structured onboarding plan alleviated my worries. From the very beginning, I was provided with all the necessary tools and resources.
The team used a variety of tools to ensure smooth communication and continuous collaboration. We used video conferencing for meetings, instant messaging for quick questions, and project management software to keep track of tasks and deadlines. This blend of tools created an efficient virtual workspace that kept everyone connected and informed.
Megan and Diane were always available to answer my questions, demonstrating remarkable patience and understanding. Daily Scrum allowed everyone to address any impediments that not only I had, but those for the entire team, and provided a personal check-in. This constant support helped me feel less isolated and more confident in my role.
The company also implemented virtual social activities, such as meditation sessions and a 15-minute session on Fridays for everyone to mingle work-unrelated. Due to the close location, Megan and Diane even scheduled an in-person collaboration at a local coffee shop in the first week, to ease this transition. These initiatives bridged the physical gap and made the remote experience feel more personal.
Diving into Agile
To familiarize myself with Agile methodologies, I was tasked with going through the company’s website from a marketing perspective. This exercise was incredibly beneficial as it allowed me to understand the content and core Agile values. I was given the opportunity to provide fresh eyes on the website, which not only helped me learn but also let me contribute meaningfully from the start.
Within my second week, I was already comfortable with providing input. I started the large project of converting all of the team’s PowerPoint presentations into Canva, and I had full creative freedom. This hands-on work helped me grasp Agile concepts deeply.
Continuous Learning
In my first week, I sat in on the wide variety of training sessions offered by Diane. I was able to gain information not only from an internal perspective but also from an external position. These trainings are interactive and well-organized, making it easier for me and the many participants to grasp concepts despite being remote learners. Since then, I have continued to learn more about the Agile framework.
Reflecting on the Experience
Looking back, I am immensely grateful for this opportunity. The onboarding process was not just about integrating me into the team, but also making me feel valued and supported. The combination of a welcoming team, structured learning, and the flexibility to adapt at my own pace made my transition into remote work and the Agile framework a success.
This experience has been a testament to the importance of a well-thought-out onboarding process, especially in a remote setting. It has also highlighted the value of a supportive team culture, which can make all the difference for newcomers.
Joining an Agile team remotely turned out to be a rewarding experience, and I am excited about the journey ahead. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that with the right support and resources, any challenge can be transformed into an opportunity for growth.
*Carly started her Agile journey when joining the team. Everyone’s journey looks different and starts in different ways. Share your Agile journey below.