NFL Veteran Kyle Van Noy Shares Lessons On Starting New Job

Kyle Van Noy, a linebacker in his 13th NFL season, has been the new guy seven times, across six teams, according to Entrepreneur. He recently joined the Minnesota Vikings, signing to the practice squad and later being added to the active roster. Van Noy's experiences have given him valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in a new role.

When starting a new job, Van Noy advises new hires to take it all in and observe their new surroundings, rather than trying to make a big impression right away. He suggests spending the first week noticing who people go to for answers and saving opinions until they know the players. This approach can help new hires avoid stepping on anyone's toes and build trust with their colleagues.

Van Noy also emphasizes the importance of letting results do the talking, rather than trying to impress others with words. He cites his own experience with the Vikings, where he had 1.5 sacks and four tackles for loss in his first three games, and the positive impact it had on his relationships with his teammates. New hires can apply this principle by delivering on a visible project in their first month and letting their work speak for itself.

Being willing to start at the bottom is another key lesson Van Noy shares, according to Entrepreneur. He notes that every organization has its own pecking order, and new hires may not get to choose where they land in the hierarchy. However, by doing their job well and making plays, they can rise through the ranks and earn the respect of their colleagues.

Van Noy also advises against being too vocal or trying to be a leader right away. Instead, he suggests pulling players aside and asking for their thoughts, or offering guidance when asked. This approach can help new hires build relationships and establish trust with their teammates, rather than coming across as overly aggressive or trying to dominate the conversation.

In addition to these lessons, Van Noy emphasizes the importance of welcoming the whole person, not just the new hire. He shares an example of how his locker neighbor, Ryan Van Demark, invited him and his son to go bass fishing, which helped him feel more at home in Minnesota. Employers can apply this principle by taking an interest in their new hires' personal lives and helping them settle into their new role.

Entrepreneur reported that Van Noy's experiences have also taught him the value of clarity and communication in setting expectations for new hires. He advises employers to be clear about what is expected of them, what metrics they need to hit, and what happens if they don't. By providing this clarity and support, employers can help new hires get up to speed quickly and succeed in their new role.