Starting a new job can be exciting, but it can also be nerve-wracking. It’s common to feel anxious about meeting new people, learning new tasks, and making a good impression on your team. Use these five simple ways to overcome your jitters and start your new job with confidence!
Final Preparation and Research
One of the best ways to overcome new job jitters is to prepare and research as much as possible before your first day. During the interview process you gained a clear understanding of the company and its culture, job description and responsibilities, and software tools you will be using. However, here’s a short list of additional items that can be completed to ensure you’re fully prepared for a stress free start:
- Review company and culture notes, job description and responsibilities
- Request or review a copy of the employee handbook
- Create a preliminary list of the company’s competitors
- Use a demo account to review or familiarize yourself (on a basic level) with any software tools
- Send thank you notes to your new employer and those who supported you in your job search
- Search for your colleagues on LinkedIn and start connecting
- Prepare a “new job announcement” to post on LinkedIn
It’s also okay to approach your new manager with a relevant question (or two) before your first day. However, make sure to limit the volume and only ask if necessary. As a general rule of thumb, if you don’t absolutely need the information before your first day then it’s best to wait and ask after you start.
Dress Professionally and Arrive Early
First impressions are important, and dressing professionally and arriving early to your new job can help you make a great one. Make sure to dress appropriately for the company culture and the position you are in. Arriving early also shows that you are punctual and reliable, which are important qualities in any job. Plus, arriving early gives you time to settle in, review your notes, and prepare for the day ahead. Here are a few other helpful first day reminders that will help set the stage for a successful beginning:
- Ensure you have a 1:1 scheduled with your new manager
- Confirm you’re understanding of the game plan over the next day, week, month, etc.
- Carve out time to introduce yourself to your new colleagues (onsite or offsite)
- Identify a co-worker that you feel comfortable confiding in for support
Remain Positive and Confident
It’s important to project a positive and confident attitude. Smile and make eye contact with your colleagues. Show enthusiasm for your new role and demonstrate your interest in learning and growing in the position. Remember, your attitude can have a big impact on how others perceive you, so try to stay positive and confident even if you’re feeling nervous inside.
One of the best ways to build your confidence is write down all the reasons that you were hired. Print those reasons out on a sheet of paper or sticky note and keep them in front of you at all times! You have the skills and qualifications necessary to succeed in your new role. So, be confident in yourself and your abilities. Take a deep breath, stay positive, and embrace this exciting new opportunity!
Ask Questions and Listen Carefully
One of the most important steps you can take to show your interest in learning and growing is to demonstrate that you value the input and expertise of your colleagues. Be prepared to ask lots of good questions and practice active listening to begin understanding the nuances of your new role. Most importantly, be prepared to take detailed notes during meetings and ask for clarification if you don’t understand something.
Take Initiative and Show Your Value
Don’t wait for someone to ask for your help. Instead, consider looking for opportunities to contribute and take on new responsibilities before an activity is ever assigned. This could be as simple as offering to help a colleague with a project, or as complex as developing a new strategy for your business unit.
Always remember that adapting to change is a critical life skill – and one that’s especially important to master when transitioning into a new workplace. However, learning to manage feelings of uncertainty can be challenging. That’s why we’ve prepared four tips to help you overcome the fear of changing jobs and ease into your new role!
