Getting through the first day of work
May 31, 2009 by admin
Filed under Getting Ahead
The first day of work at a new job is often a mix of excitement, trepidation and perhaps even downright fear. Most people at one time or another have experienced the anxiety that accompanies beginning a new job.
You can alleviate some of that nervous angst by being prepared and maintaining a positive attitude about your first day. How you approach the day will make all the difference in whether or not it is a success.
Start preparation the day before, lay out your clothes, and get a good night’s sleep. In the morning give yourself plenty of time to get showered and dressed; leave enough time for breakfast.
Before you leave, take a last look in the mirror to check your appearance, then take a deep breath and go knock their socks off. Here are a few more tips on how to get through your first day at work:
*Be on Time
Plan enough time to leave your house early so you aren’t late due to any unexpected traffic, train delays, or poor weather conditions. Getting to work late on your first day would not be a good start, so be sure and leave with plenty of time to spare, it is better to be early than late.
*Be Confident
Once you enter your new workplace, try and exhibit the same confidence you had during the interview process. After all, the company did choose you over other applicants for this job because you were the right candidate.
While it is understandable to be a little nervous, most employers expect a degree of anxiety, you don’t want to be a total nervous wreck, even if your stomach is tied up in knots. Focus on your competencies and why you applied for the job and this confidence will help carry you through any panicky moments.
*Smile and be Friendly
A positive attitude and appearance is a good foot to begin your new job. Smile to you new bosses, colleagues, customers or any other personal interactions you have. You’ll illuminate an aura of an upbeat attitude and in most cases this works well. You don’t have to be overzealous, but at the very least polite and approachable through your body language.
*Be Attentive
Your first day will likely consist of a lot of introductions, how to’s and other directives. It’s probable you won’t remember everyone’s name the first day and will need to ask follow up questions on how to do processes or other transactions. Pay close attention and take notes wherever possible. These will prove to be invaluable to you later on.
You especially want to show your new bosses and coworkers that you’re paying attention and not appearing to be bored or disinterested. Even if you are overwhelmed, ask questions, the more interest you show in your new job, the better off your day will go.
*Office Politics
In some work environments it is very difficult to avoid office politics and gossip. No good typically comes out of office gossip and it is best to avoid getting involved as much as possible. You don’t want to jump head first into office politics when you first start a new job.
Instead, stand back and observe, you can form your own opinions over the course of time and then get involved where appropriate and/or necessary.
Starting a new job can be full of pressure and anxiety, and first impressions are typically lasting ones. Your best bet is to spend the first day meeting everyone and learning your job. Try and keep your focus narrowed on these aspects. You can spread out and get involved in other facets of your company as you become more immersed and comfortable in your new position.