Starting a new job can be quite daunting. While it has been an exciting journey to get to the place you are today, your first day at your new job is almost always overwhelming.
All your past patterns and daily routines have gone. The coffee shop doesn’t know your coffee, and that sandwich you always enjoyed on a Friday is now on the other side of the city. How nerve-wracking! So how do you get around all of this AND start your new job?
Having had a few contract roles in Sydney, I have embraced change on more than one occasion, and I too have found it hard to get past those first day jitters. So, below are some of my tips which helped me get past the fact that Tom in the new café did not know that <em>‘I'll have a strong flat white with no sugar, thanks!’
Establish goals
First tip, get in the habit of writing a “to do list”. People that know me, know that I like love to put everything down on paper – what I would like to get from that week, a set of goals that I would like to hit. If you don’t already do this, you will be surprised at the amount of satisfaction that you will get from working towards something and striking that goal off your list.
Remember, when starting a new job that - you have got this job for a reason – fill yourself with confidence from that. You will only ever get as much out of something as you put in. So ask yourself, what do I want to get from this new role and where do I see myself progressing to. If you start your new role with direction and purpose, you will be in a better position to anticipate what comes next.
It's important, however, to always be realistic. Set yourself some short term, yet meaningful, goals. Get your confidence levels up. Change is happening and it is important that you seize every opportunity to reassure yourself of your abilities.
BE ON TIME
Your second tip, and I cannot stress this point enough – be on time. And by on time, I mean be 10 minutes early. I always set my watch ten minutes fast. Whilst being on time is always important, it is even important when starting a new job. As I touched on earlier, change always surrounds a new job so it is important you get the basics right. Don't underestimate a new commute, you do not know what to expect. Anticipate the worst during your first few weeks - give yourself that extra bit of time to account for getting lost (oh and don't trust google maps!)
Arriving early also gives you the chance to the extra time to speak to security, that new guy at the coffee shop and the receptionists – after all, these are people you will be interacting with daily so it is important you build rapport with them as quickly as possible.
Wear a pink wig
Thirdly, wear that pink wig of yours! I don’t mean it literally but it is so important to not be invisible. Ask lots of questions and converse with those around you. Remember, everybody has had a first day and you will find that your colleagues will be your best, and most important, source of information. Trust me, they don't bite, and if they do, please tell someone!! Again, these are the people you will be spending most of your days with. So ask questions and build rapport – having good relationships in the workplace makes your job a lot easier.
I am horrendous with names but it is important you get this right. I have always played a little game with myself to try and remember people’s names. Whether they remind me of someone or a simple rhyme that ensures that next time I bump into them in the corridor I can call them by their first name – it goes a long way!
Roll up your sleeves
Finally, remember that the main reason you are there is to work. Most likely, it is your skill and passion that landed you the job so role up your sleeves and let your work do most of the talking. I am a firm believer that the best way to learn in a new job is to sink or swim, so get in there and do not be afraid to get involved. Just remember to always keep that fine line between cocky and confident in your vision.
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