Seven Tips to Help You Survive Your First Week on the Job
Caroline Redmond, Marketing Intern
Your first week on the job is an awesome and exciting time but it can also be pretty scary because there are so many unknowns. We sat down with the Career Connections Center’s Matthew Cowley, Assistant Director for Professional Development and Experience, for tips on how to survive your first week on the job.
1. Take a breath and celebrate that you got the job
A lot of people get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of the first week that they forget to stop and take a moment to celebrate the fact that they got the job!
2. Take care of the logistical things first
Before you even get on the job it’s important to answer questions like “what forms do I need to bring in?”, “how long does it take to get there?”, and “where should I park?”
3. Get there early
Plan to arrive early during your first week. There are many factors that could make you late, like traffic that you might not be used to. You don’t want to be the last one to arrive!
4. Know the dress code
Ask what you should wear before your first day. You don’t want to show up in business casual (see our “So what exactly is business casual?” post) when everyone else in suits.
5. Get to know your co-workers and the work environment
It is important to learn how your co-workers like to communicate. Does your boss prefer when you call them? Or would they prefer you to come into their office and talk in person?
6. Don’t try to start to early with actual work
Don’t get so excited with your new job that you forget about training.
7. Be patient with yourself
Remember- this is new to you! There can be a lot of pressure and it is easy to get nervous so it’s important to take it one day at a time. On average, it takes about one year to fully adjust to a new position so don’t put too much pressure on yourself to be completely adjusted right away!
Our career planning services are open to UF graduates up to a year after your graduation. If you have questions about starting a new job, schedule a time to talk with our career planners in Gator CareerLink.