Starting a new job is an emotional rollercoaster, full of excitement, hope, and hidden anxieties. How companies support this emotional journey can make all the difference in whether new employees thrive or move on

Stepping into a new job is a universal rite of passage that blends anticipation, hope, anxiety, and vulnerability. For many, the first days and weeks are a whirlwind of introductions, learning curves, and self-discovery. But beneath the surface, a complex emotional journey is unfolding, shaping not just how new hires perform but whether they stay, thrive, or quietly disengage.

The excitement of new beginnings

For most employees, the first emotion is excitement. According to a 2024 LinkedIn survey, 72% of professionals report feeling energized and optimistic when starting a new role. The prospect of fresh challenges, new colleagues, and the chance to prove oneself can be a powerful motivator. This “honeymoon phase” often comes with a burst of creativity and engagement—Gallup research shows that employee engagement peaks during the first six months on the job.

Key Drivers of positive emotion:

Opportunity for Growth: 68% of new hires cite learning and advancement as their top excitement factor.
Social Integration: Making new connections and feeling welcomed by the team are consistently linked to early job satisfaction.
Recognition: Early praise or acknowledgment boosts confidence and accelerates integration.

The Shadows: anxiety, impostor syndrome, and uncertainty

Yet, the positive emotions are often shadowed by anxiety. According to another study, nearly 60% of new employees admit to feeling overwhelmed in their first month. The pressure to perform, fear of making mistakes, and uncertainty about unwritten rules can trigger stress and self-doubt.

Common Emotional Challenges:

Impostor Syndrome: Over 50% of professionals experience feelings of inadequacy or fear of being “found out” as unqualified, especially in high-performing environments.
Fear of Failure: The desire to impress can lead to perfectionism and reluctance to ask for help.
Social Anxiety: Navigating new team dynamics and workplace politics can be daunting, particularly for introverts or those from underrepresented backgrounds.

The impact on performance and retention

Emotional turbulence isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a business one. Research finds that 20% of employee turnover happens within the first 45 days. New hires are more likely to disengage or leave when they feel unsupported or disconnected. Conversely, organizations that foster emotional well-being see a 50% increase in new hire retention and a 70% boost in productivity during the first year.

“ 20% of employee turnover happens within the first 45 days.”

Strategies for navigating the emotional journey

For Individuals:

Acknowledge the Rollercoaster: Recognize that mixed emotions are normal and temporary.
Seek Support: Build relationships with coworkers, mentors, or employee resource groups.
Practice Self-Compassion: Allow yourself to be a beginner; mistakes are part of the process.

For Organizations:

Structured Onboarding: Programs that combine practical training with social integration help reduce anxiety and accelerate belonging.
Buddy Systems: Assigning a peer mentor can cut feelings of isolation by 36% (Harvard Business Review, 2023).
Regular Check-ins: Managers who provide early, empathetic feedback create psychological safety and boost confidence.

The silver lining

While the emotional journey of starting a new job is rarely smooth, it’s also a period of immense growth. The discomfort of the unknown pushes individuals to adapt, learn, and ultimately find their place. For organizations, recognizing and supporting this journey is a strategic investment in engagement, retention, and long-term success.

For an employee, having strong professional skills (often called “soft skills”) such as communication and adaptability is invaluable. These abilities are essential for overcoming the emotional challenges that usually arise in a work environment.

As one new hire said, “It’s like stepping onto a new stage. The nerves never go away, but with the right support, you find your rhythm—and maybe even enjoy the spotlight.”

Sources:

LinkedIn Workforce Confidence Index (2024)

Gallup Employee Engagement Reports (2023-2024)

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Harvard Business Review (2023)
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Lean Six Search Consultants interviews (2025)

The emotional landscape of starting a new job