You have landed your dream job, but those nervous butterflies are threatening to ruin your first week. Starting a new job is never easy, you have a new boss, new co-workers, and your surroundings are different. The game plan will be entirely new, and you will often feel like an outsider looking in. So, how can you make those first few days better without the hassle?
One way to get ahead is by first preparing yourself mentally. Ask your boss for what a daily routine looks like in their office. Going by that, you can prepare yourself for many of the activities. Also, get a new day planner. Even though you will be a rookie in the field, it is always a good idea to have daily goals for yourself. Write them down, so that you have something to keep your mind preoccupied. Also, another idea is to write down a motivational quote each week in your day planner, for inspiration.
Be sure to dress your best. On the weekend before you start, go through your clothes, and put together five outfits. These should be your power outfits, you know the kind, the ones that make you feel taller, and more confident. Blue is often a good choice, as well as a good black suit paired with a white collar. Taking time to dress for success will not only impress your employer, but it will make you feel more successful, and ready for the adventure ahead. Not to mention, you will knock out those nervous habits of changing multiple outfits each morning, and risking being late for work.
Be sure to leave well ahead of your schedule to allow you time for a coffee or tea each morning. Having a familiar routine that you have participated in will help your days feel more normal. Plus, it’s always a benefit to have something on hand when you walk in the door. Also, as you meet your new co-workers, be sure to shake their hand firmly, and repeat their names. This is another sign of confidence, and an excellent way to bond with your co-workers.
Show up each morning, at least 10 minutes ahead of yours schedule. Again, this is a simple way to prepare yourself mentally, and get comfortable in your new office. You will have time to set things up, learn the layout of your office equipment, and even learn things as simply as turning your computer on. It’s also a great sign to your new employer that you are series about this job.
When you attend your first meeting, be sure to take notes. Don’t be obvious about it, just a small note pad, and pen will do. Write down their objective, the areas that they seem to be concerned about, and beyond. This will help you to key in on areas that you may have expertise in, and can eventually share your own knowledge, as you gain trust with the company.
All in all, learn to be yourself. You got hired for a reason, and it is obvious that your new employers were impressed with how you presented yourself. Learn to be patient, always listening, and ready to learn a new task. Before you know it, you will be a pro at your new job, as the five days from hell will be over.
About the Author:
This is a guest post from Peter Sanchez, a new contributor at CreditDonkey. Visit CreditDonkey.com to find, compare and apply for a credit card. Gain insight with credit card advice and tips. Share your first week survival tips with Peter.
Further Reading:
- 5 Tips for Finding a Job This Year
- Five of the Scariest Jobs Around
- The Dream Job
- Creative ways to use interactive whiteboards in the classroom
- How conference calling works – A Short Guide to Conference Calling
