Yesterday was bittersweet. It was my last day at a company that I've been with for the past 4 1/2 years. My co-workers had become my San Francisco family, they were incredibly supportive and helped me transition to living in the city when I moved from the foothills.
Although I had a great job with supportive co-workers, I felt that I had reached a point when it was time to move forward. I was ready for new challenges and opportunities that would push me to grow and advance my career. And as scary as it was to think about leaving a job that I was so comfortable with and good at, I knew I was ready. And that I would grow professionally and personally from accepting a new challenge.
Starting a new job should be exciting. It means new adventures, new possibilities, and new outfits. But the reality can often feel less glamourous. Starting a new job will always be a stressful and overwhelming experience. But there are a few things to keep in mind that will help you transition into your new position and find success.
// It's Okay To Be Nervous //
It's always a little frightening to start a new job. But know that it is completely normal to feel this way. Try to take a few deep breathes and remind yourself of your qualifications. Use your past experiences to boost your confidence. Think about your past work experience and how it has prepared you for this new role. Although you will be faced with new challenges, remember the skills you already possess and how they have helped you get to where you are now. Think back to your interview and remind yourself of the arguments you made to illustrate that you were the best candidate for the role. Allow yourself feel the nerves, and let that push you to succeed.
// They Hired You For A Reason //
This goes hand in hand with number one. While you may feel nervous, remember they hired you for a reason. They saw something in you that they didn't see in other candidates. They extended an offer because they thought you were the best one for the job. So although you may question your skills, and feel nervous about your ability to take on new challenges or a demanding role, remember that you were hired for a reason. This should also motivate you to live up to that expectation, and inspire you to put your best foot forward and work hard to succeed.
// Be Friendly & Kind //
As with anything, kindness goes a long way. First impressions are everything, when you arrive on your first day greet everyone with a smile and try your best to remember names. Remember you will be spending the majority of your time with these people. It's important to be friendly and start off on the right foot.
// Go The Extra Mile //
In those first few weeks at your new role, it's important to do your best to make an impression. Show people you are hard working and motivated to succeed. Arrive early, stay late, and offer to help whenever you can. Your colleagues will take note and see that you're a team player.
// Be Observant //
With a new role in a new company, there is inevitably going to be a learning curve. Be observant of those around you. You'll learn a lot about how the company works by watching those who are in your position and have more experience with the company. Know when to ask questions and take notes when you can, this will help avoid miscommunication. Try to be like a sponge and soak up as much information as you can in those first weeks. This will help you adjust quickly to the company and your new role.
// Build Relationships //
One thing that will help you get settled into your new role is building relationships with co-workers. This goes back to being friendly and kind towards everyone you meet, it will help you establish relationships and find a "bestie" at work. In my opinion, building genuine relationships with the people you work with is crucial to happiness in any role. Having a friend in the office not only gives you a buddy to sit with at lunch or grab a drink with after work, but it means you'll have someone to there for you when you need help on a project and someone to answer any questions when you're still getting to know the role and what is expected of you.
// Organization //
Organize, Organize, Organize!! It is important for people to see that you are organized. It will show them that you are dependable and take your job seriously. Starting out a new position organized will help set you up for success in the role. If you set up systems for organization from the beginning, you are more likely to stay organized as time goes on. Set up folders in your emails, take notes, and write to do lists. Go overboard, the more organized you are the more likely you are to succeed in the role.
// Show Your Excitement For The Role //
Show your excitement for the company and your new position. If your colleagues see that you are excited to become a part of the team, the more likely they are to be excited to have you. Showing your eager to learn and ambitious will help you in the long run. Your boss will likely remember your excitement and positive attitude, which could lead to a promotion down the line.
// Say Yes & Figure The Rest Out Later //
Always say yes when you first start a new job. If a co-worker asks you to go out for drinks after work, join them! This is a great way to get to know people and build relationships with those you work with. When given a tasks, say yes! Even if it's something you've never done before. Use your experience from past jobs and apply your skills to succeed. It's important to show them that you're a hard worker and eager to take on challenges.
// Have Fun //
Most importantly, have fun! Remember that you applied to this job for a reason. No doubt, you accepted the job because it was a great offer. Remind yourself of all the new and exciting possibilities that come with starting a new job and let that motivate you to work hard and prove yourself. Enjoy the challenges and appreciate the opportunity to learn.
