5 Things You Should Know Before Starting Your First Job

1. Dress for the Job You Want

The industry you work in will decide what your dress code will be. Corporate environments require employees to maintain a business professional wardrobe while nontraditional workplaces tend to be more casual. Whatever the dress code, be sure to dress your best. How you dress and maintain your appearance will not only make you more confident in the workplace but will show your colleagues that you are serious about your job. Choose your outfit the night before to shave off some time from your morning routine.

2. Manners Matter

First impressions are lasting impressions. It is very important that you start your first job off on the right foot. You want to show your new boss early on that you are a team player. Your first day on the job, greet everyone with a friendly smile and simple “hello.” It may seem trivial but you’d be surprised how far a smile can get you. Extra credit- learn everyone’s name ASAP. I learned (and actually remembered) my coworkers’ names on the very first day.

3. Don’t Take It Personal

So you are walking around the office flashing your pearly whites at anyone who looks your way. In the hallway you walk past another new face and offer a friendly greeting but all you get in response is a grunt (if a grunt is even considered acknowledgment). Don’t get upset when you aren’t received warmly or someone is rude to you. What I learned in the first week of my new job is that most of the time that individual is dealing with their own work stresses. Their attitude has nothing to do with you, its just a side-effect of the challenges they are working through. Let the negativity roll off you and continue flashing your pearly whites!

4. Sit Down, Be Humble

No one likes a know-it-all. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT walk into the office suggesting changes that should be made on your first day. Not even during your first week! Take time to learn the company, the protocols, and procedures before you place your slip of paper in the suggestions box. One, you’ll ruffle the feathers of your superior and co-workers. Second, because you have only been at the company a short while, you won’t even be sure that the “problem” you see is actually a problem. Just take the time to learn to the company and make yourself a part of the team.

5. Work Hard, Play Hard

Starting your first full-time job is a really big step. As with all new experiences, there is going to be an adjustment period. I am still trying to get used to waking up early again. After working hard all week, take time during the weekend to do something you love. I am a very big advocate for self-care. You can’t put your best work forward when you are running on empty. Treat yourself to a mani/pedi or go to the bookstore you’ve always wanted to check out. Just love on yourself. If you make self-care a habit early in your career, I believe you’ll be less likely to experience burnout.

Thanks for stopping by! If you like what you see, subscribe to my email list here! And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram! See you next time!