Navigating the Challenges of Onboarding in a New Organization

Starting a new job is often a blend of excitement and anxiety, and my first day in a new organization was no exception. I quickly discovered that I had stepped into a whirlwind of challenges: the team hadn’t finalized any of the financial records for 2025 yet. I could feel the weight of expectations on my shoulders, and it was clear that I had my work cut out for me.

For the past year, I served as a project accountant, a role that, while rewarding, came with its share of underappreciation in terms of compensation. With my recent transition into a financial analyst position, I hoped for a fresh start and the chance to contribute meaningfully. However, I soon learned that the Accounting team was facing significant staffing shortages. Of the eight team members, three were on leave—whether for maternity or other reasons—leaving the remaining staff stretched thin.

To add to the complexity, a new accounts payable person had just joined the team a week prior, and the accounts receivable staff member started only a month ago. The urgency to familiarize myself with their systems was palpable, as leadership expected me to assist in closing the books as soon as possible. However, complications arose when I found out that the last bank reconciliation was conducted back in February. This gap has made the task of reconciling accounts and ensuring accuracy far more daunting.

As I embark on this daunting journey of onboarding and managing financial records under such pressure, I remind myself to remain focused, resourceful, and patient. A proactive approach will be crucial in navigating this challenging yet exciting new chapter of my career.