You did it! You got the job. Not just any job, but the best job EVER! Congrats! Now it’s time to kick off this next chapter right. Whether you’re a recent grad or shifting careers, the initial days at a new company can set the tone for the experience. Let’s dig into how to kick off this new job on the right foot.
Prepare emotionally
While change can be exciting, it can also be hard for many. Before your first day, take some time to reflect on how you are feeling to prepare yourself mentally for this new phase in life. Consider journaling. Is it nervousness, excitement, etc. When we take time to reflect on how we are feeling and recognize the emotions flowing through us, they are not as scary. This can also be a great time to remind yourself of your skills, accomplishments, and positive attributes. This “validation list” can be a handy tool to navigate any insecurity that may come up…which is common. Since every organization is different, starting a new job can bring up feelings of insecurity and even a false belief of being incompetent. Rest assured, this is natural and many people experience this while adjusting to a new environment. Your mojo will return.
Prepare logistically
It’s amazing how our body can take us to work half asleep because we go on autopilot. We know the route. We do this every day. It’s not something we have to think much about. Switching that up with a new gig can mean more focused attention in the early days to plan for logistical changes. Set your alarm for earlier, and plan your driving, biking, or transit route. Leave a buffer in case you get lost. Before you know it, that playlist will be blaring again as you sip coffee on your routine commute…it just takes some time.
Arrive early
Don’t run the risk of being late on your first day. Set multiple alarms, get your favourite tunes ready to lift your energy and launch this next phase with professionalism and commitment. Aim to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early on your first day. Check out the coffee shops and neighbourhood in advance of your big day to help make the transition a smooth one.
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Dress the part
Not sure what to wear? You are not alone. This is a common concern for many. There is a simple solution…just ask. Recruiters and hiring managers want to help make your first day a great one. If in doubt, a button-down and dress pants can work for more formal environments and casual ones. This will allow you to dial up or down after the first day.
Go in with an open mind and a smile
Bring your best energy. Introduce yourself with a smile, a great handshake, and some genuine interest in getting to know the other person. You will need their support. Start off right with an open mind and a welcoming approach.
A time for listening
They say there is a time for everything and everything in its time. Starting a new job is a time for listening, watching, reflecting, and learning. Act as a sponge, soaking up the environment, the people, and the processes without judgment.
Seek feedback
Building a strong relationship with your manager can help you benefit from formal and informal coaching and guidance. This is vital in helping you ramp up well, course correct as needed, and celebrate the wins on your new job. Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback on your work and performance. Actively seek out opportunities for development and the enrichment of your work.
Stay organized
Whether you are a spreadsheet person or that handy notebook, take notes! Information will be flying at you. Many describe starting a new job as “drinking from a fire hose”. This is normal. An easy way to relieve some of the anxiety that may accompany the flood of information is to have a mechanism for keeping track of everything. Consider grouping things into buckets (onboarding paperwork, processes, people/partners, daily/monthly/quarterly tasks, to dos, etc.). Establishing good organizational habits from the start can help you ramp up with greater ease.
Build your internal network
As suggested above, stay organized as you build your internal network. You will be meeting a lot of people, Keeping track of everyone can be helpful in the early days. Investing time in building positive relationships can also help you answer the many questions you will inevitably have.
Maintain a positive attitude
Like anything in life, there may be setbacks. Maintaining a positive attitude and giving yourself grace is so important as you make this career change. When experiencing periods of worry, insecurity, etc, go back to your validation list to remind yourself that you got this! Reach out to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) should you need additional support. Change is hard so build a support system to help you navigate it.
Starting a new job is an exciting time! Embrace this new adventure. The best is yet to come!
