How To Handle the First Day of Your New Career

Career changers often feel the hardest part of changing careers is the job search: writing a winningcover letterandresume,nailing the interview, andnegotiating the job offer．Once you’ve got the job, you’re all set.

The first day in your new career canset the stage for your success．You’ve made it to the first day, and now is the time to show the company it made the right choice hiring you.

To make the first day in your new career a little less stressful, here are some tips and tricks to help you get off to a fantastic start.

How to Handle Your First Day in a New Career

Take Your Time

Jittery nerves and excitement about your new role can get you started with a rush of energy that could result in unintended errors.Take it slow and give yourself time to settleinto your new role and career.

Make sure you ask questions to get a thorough understanding of the role, your team, and the company. Give yourself plenty of time and space to find your groove in the workflow. Check out the resources your company provides (handbook, orientation) and set up your workspace to be asproductiveanddistraction-freeas possible.

Learn the Communication Styles

Companies, teams, and colleagues (not to mention your boss!) all have different expectations on thetype and frequency of communicationsthey use.

Look over andfamiliarize yourself with the different沟通的方法everyone uses．不同的部门与ea交流如何ch other? How does HR or the CEO keep the company informed? What kind of messaging is provided to clients and customers?

Pay attention to the language they use (formal, casual) and how the messages are delivered (email, Slack, phone calls, social media). This can help you find your voice and engage with your coworkers on a professional level. Too much, too little, or using the wrong methods could impact your potential within the company.

Say “Hello”

Making friendly introductions to people across the company can set the tone for your future working relationships. Giving a brief background on your career change, education, and what brought you to the company can start a positive space for open communication.

Having advocates at work, both within your team and other departments, can make your transition smoother and easier. Findingfriendly coworkers who can answer questions and show you the ropeswill make yourintegration into the company culturequicker and easier.

Know Your Goals

The first day of your new career is a great time to meet with your boss and discuss theexpectations and goalsfor the role. Asking where you should be in three, six, and even nine or 12 months shows your dedication to the role and gives youa clear understanding of what you need to do to be successful in this new career．

Schedule a follow-up with your boss after three months to see how your progress matches the expectations that were established on your first day and adjust your plans if necessary.

Banish First-Day Nerves

Starting a new journey is thrilling, and professional growth in your new career can start on day one. Walking into your first day feeling confident and ready to take on new tasks and learn your new employer’s ropes can be an exhilarating experience. Setting the tone yourself can ensure a great first impression and a long, happy career path.

If you’re contemplating a career change, you don’t have to do it alone! FlexJobs can help you figure out where you want to go and what you have to do to get there. Take a tour to learn more about all of the ways FlexJobs can support you throughout your job search and career.

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