New Computer System at Work: 1st Day Tips

After months of rumors, memos, and pilot programs, it is time to learn the new computer system at work. Set yourself up for success using a few simple strategies.

Take it slow

Learning new technology is like learning a musical instrument. It takes time for the brain and fingers to coordinate. Adding undue pressure actually hinders the brain’s ability to learn, so give yourself permission to move at your own pace.

Pray

I understand this is not for everyone, but it works for me. There are a lot of things that I can’t control, especially in technology. At the beginning of every flight or road trip, I pause to ask God for a safe journey. When I arrive at my destination, I offer a prayer of thanks.

I do the same when I approach an unfamiliar or complex computer-based task. I pray that the equipment will run as it should and I ask God to help me with the tasks at hand. When the job is done, I pause and say, “Thank you.”

Get the essentials

At the end of your first lesson, this is what you should know. You might forget everything else, and that’s ok, but…

🚩 Do not walk away from the first training session without answers to these questions:

1. What is the basic function of the system?

Will you use it to process orders, organize client data, schedule appointments, etc.? Before you can learn how, you need a basic idea of what you will be doing.

2. How do I log in?

Be sure to save your username and password. Memorize it, text it to yourself, or put a note in your wallet. Have it ready for training session #2.

3. How will I get my questions answered?

This is probably the most important question. Every system has glitches. Every user encounters difficulty at some point. Your company’s new computer system surely comes with support. Learn how to submit a Help Desk ticket, and don’t be afraid to use it.

Listen to your brain

The learning process is unique for each person, topic, and setting. If I am interested in the subject, I can usually process new information for about 45 minutes. When it has had enough, my brain “stops.” It’s like there’s a wall around my mind, and the new information does not have the password.

When this happens, I say out loud, “My brain stopped. I need to step away.” I literally tell my whole body (and anyone else in the room) that I am switching tasks. This may be a good time to use the restroom or take a short walk outside. If I’m on the clock, I can clean my workstation, do some filing, or any other task that gives my brain a break.

Ironically, the brain is not resting during a “brain break.” It is vigorously processing the information it just received. Picture each new bit of data as a sheet of paper, placed on a desk. After a 45-minute training session, a stack of papers has accumulated. While you perform another, more familiar task, the brain files each sheet into the proper brain-folder. When you return for the next training session, the desk is clear and your brain is once again able to process new information.