For some of us college graduates, we accepted our first full-time jobs before we even graduated, leaving little time to unwind and get ready for this huge next step. For me, I was both nervous and excited, as this would be an opportunity to start a new chapter and really figure out the career path I want to take. I only had three weeks between my college graduation and the first day at my new job, so I needed to use all the free time I had to prepare.
So far, it's been a smooth transition, and I owe it to these ten specific things I did which I also strongly feel will help anyone anticipating the start of their first job.
1. Read up on your new company and position
Make sure you know exactly what it is that you'll be doing. It is your job after all! Learn the company's history and research the duties of your position. If you're really feeling ambitious, go on Linkdin and connect with current employees of that company who hold your same position and send them a message to learn about what a typical day would roughly be like.
2. Buy the appropriate clothing
Regardless of the job, there is likely to be a dress code of some sorts. For those of us like myself entering the business world, dress clothes are a must. You don't have to spend an arm and a leg either! You can score great deals just by doing some research. A huge part of being successful at your job is how you present yourself. If you look good, you'll feel good, which will translate into a positive outlook and drive to succeed each day at work.
3. Get a planner (and actually use it!)
The first day of my job is when I got a idea of what my day-to-day schedule would look like. I then bought a planner and started filling in my daily schedule. This definitely helped me to put my mind at ease knowing that all my meetings and important events were already noted days in advance.
4. Set an early bedtime at least a week before
Likely the most important part of starting a new job is showing up refreshed, alert, and energized. I had to break my habit of staying up past midnight almost every night to training myself to go to sleep between 9:30pm and 10pm every week night as I would be getting up at 6am each day. It was definitely hard adjusting to this at first, but after a week, it started to feel natural and routine. I don't even need coffee! (not like I'd honestly ever drink it)
5. Practice your "elevator pitch" about yourself
You are going to be meeting many people for the first time-CEOs, managers, coworkers, etc, and your first impression is vital. You want them to view you as someone who's sure of themselves and easy-going. Knowing how to introduce yourself and explain what your goals are as a new employee is crucial to making a positive impact on those you will be working with.
6. Ask other recently hired people for advice
Have a friend who started their first job a little bit before you? Know someone in the company you will be working at? Ask them how they felt when they first started and all that they feel you should know! Friends will tell you things that your hiring manager may leave out, so definitely use them as a resource for the realistic, honest perspectives.
7. Write down questions to ask on the first day
Knowing that you are starting fresh with barely any knowledge of your duties may seem daunting, so I highly recommend writing down as many questions that you can think of to ask your manager, coworkers, trainers, etc. Not only will they be impressed that you thought ahead like this, but you will also leave the first few days feeling more confident about your new position.
8. In fact, write EVERYTHING down!
Anything that is being lectured to you, write it down! Write down the steps on how to use that new online system. Write down the rules you need to follow for your position. Anything that you're told that seems important, just write it!
9. Introduce yourself to as many people as possible
I know putting yourself out there in a room full of strangers seems frightening, especially for those of us who have a bit of anxiety, but trust me, the more times you make an effort to introduce yourself to your fellow employees, the easier it will be and the more welcomed you'll feel. You may even make some new friends out of it! The more people who know you, the easier it will be to go to them for help or vice versa. You are going to be with these people roughly 40 hours a week, so please get to know them!
10. Take time for yourself if you're feeling overwhelmed
There are going to be difficult, stressful days. There are going to be times that you fall behind on your tasks or struggle with a project. Don't let it destroy you. Just take a few minutes and step back, clearing your mind for a bit and reminding yourself just how much you wanted this job and how strongly you want to succeed. Maybe even go outside for a bit if you have time, listen to music, play a game on your phone, really anything to help you recharge quickly. Part of succeeding is acknowledging that you're still new, you don't know and won't know everything right away, and it's okay to make mistakes. Just don't hesitate to reach out for help or take "me time."
Yes, starting a new job can and very well be a scary, intimidating time. You really don't know how you fit in until your first day. With that said, make sure to plan ahead and prepare as best you can for this new chapter in your life. Your ways to get ready may be different from mine, but it is important that you follow through.
Be excited! You got a job! All those years of studying and resume workshops have paid off! Enjoy this official start of adulthood!
