Author: Ambre HOAREAU
Publication date: 13.09.2024
Stepping into your first job after graduation can be both exciting and intimidating. It’s the start of a new chapter, full of opportunities to grow and develop your professional identity but also of times of insecurities to do well for your future. The first 90 days can be critical in setting the tone for your long-term success. This period is all about learning, adapting, and building a solid foundation for your career. Here’s a guide to help you navigate these early stages with confidence and make the most of your first professional experience.
Challenges
Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
Feeling like you don’t belong or aren’t qualified enough for your job is a common experience, especially for new graduates. These are symptoms of imposter syndrome, and it can strongly impact your confidence. It is important to recognize these feelings and work through them.
Ways to overcome imposter syndrome:
● Acknowledge your accomplishments: Reflect on how far you’ve come and recognize that you were hired for a reason.
● Set realistic goals: Don’t forget what you are capable of and adjust what you need in order to meet your objectives.
● Talk about it: Share your feelings with a trusted colleague or mentor who can provide reassurance and perspective. If it keeps on bothering you, don’t hesitate to seek professional support.
There is a reason why you are where you are, and with time, your confidence will grow as you continue to prove your abilities.
Balancing Work-Life Dynamics
Starting a new job can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to let work consume all your time and energy. However, establishing a healthy work-life balance early on is crucial for long-term well-being and productivity.
Here are some strategies to help you maintain balance:
●Set boundaries: Be clear about your work hours and try to avoid consistently working overtime.
●Take breaks: Short breaks during the day can help you stay focused and energized.
● Make time for hobbies and relaxation: Prioritize activities that help you unwind outside of work.
Balancing your career with personal time will help you avoid burnout and maintain a healthy perspective.
Establishing a Professional Presence
In the early days of your career, your reputation is built on how you present yourself and interact with others. Establishing a professional presence means being reliable, respectful, and adaptable.
To make a strong impression:
●Communicate clearly: Be articulate in meetings and ensure you’re keeping colleagues updated on your progress.
●Dress appropriately: Dress in a way that aligns with your company’s culture, as first impressions count.
●Be punctual: Arrive on time for work and meetings, showing that you respect others' time and are committed to your role.
Building a professional presence early on will help you earn trust and respect from your colleagues.
Tips
Understanding Workplace Culture
Every company has its own unique culture, which includes its values, goals, and behaviors that influence everyday’s work. Take your time, observe and understand this culture during your first few weeks on the job. Watch how your colleagues interact, what communication styles are preferred, and how decisions are made.
Here are a few tips to adapt more quickly:
●Ask questions: If you're not sure about something, it's better to ask than make assumptions.
●Be open-minded: Each workplace is different from university life, so embrace the changes.
● Observe your surroundings: Pay attention to how meetings are run, how people dress, and how communication flows within the team.
It will help you integrate more smoothly into the team and the company.
Mastering Time Management
Time management is one of the most important skills to master in your first job. You’ll likely have a variety of tasks thrown your way, and how you prioritize and manage them will shape your performance. Here’s how to stay organized and on top of your responsibilities:
●Use tools: Leverage tools like to-do lists, calendars, or project management apps to keep track of deadlines and meetings.
●Prioritize tasks: Focus on high-impact tasks first. This will help you deliver value early and demonstrate that you’re capable of handling important responsibilities.
●Break down projects: Large tasks can feel overwhelming. Break them down into smaller tasks you will be able to take care of one step at a time.
Learning to balance short-term tasks with long-term projects will show your team that you’re efficient and reliable.
Setting Achievable Goals
Your first 90 days are a great time to set some personal and professional goals. These goals don’t have to be grand but should be clear and achievable. They will give you something to work toward and help measure your progress.
Consider setting goals in these areas:
●Learning goals: Aim to gain a deeper understanding of your industry or the tools you’ll be using.
●Skill-building goals: Identify key skills you need to improve, whether technical or soft skills.
●Performance goals: Focus on delivering one or two standout projects or contributions that will make a positive impression.
Setting goals early will keep you motivated and focused on areas of growth that matter to you and your role while helping you not get overwhelmed by the pressure since you’ll have an overview of how to get to your objectives.
Seeking Mentorship
Mentorship can be a game-changer in your first job. A mentor provides guidance, shares their experiences, and helps you navigate the complexities of your new role. Don’t be afraid to seek out someone in your organization who can offer support.
How to approach finding a mentor:
●Identify potential mentors: Look for someone with experience in your field who aligns with your career goals.
●Be proactive: Initiate conversations, ask for advice, and show a willingness to learn.
●Stay open to feedback: Mentors may provide constructive criticism. Embrace it as a learning opportunity rather than a setback.
Having a mentor can offer you a sense of direction and boost your confidence as you adjust to your new role.
Networking Effectively
Building relationships in the workplace is crucial for long-term career growth. Networking goes beyond just meeting people – it’s about forming genuine connections that can help you navigate your job and open up future opportunities.
Here’s how to start building your professional network:
●Attend events: Whether it’s team meetings, social gatherings, or industry conferences, these are opportunities to meet people across the organization.
●Be approachable: Take the initiative to introduce yourself to colleagues outside of your immediate team.
● Stay connected: Keep in touch with people you meet, both in your company and within your broader industry.
Effective networking will not only provide support but can also expose you to new opportunities for growth and advancement.
Conclusion
The first 90 days in your new job are a critical period for laying the foundation for your career. By understanding workplace culture, mastering time management, setting clear goals, seeking mentorship, and effectively networking, you can set yourself up for long-term success. Remember to tackle common challenges like imposter syndrome, work-life balance, and establishing a professional presence with confidence and openness to learning. This period is just the beginning, and with the right mindset and strategies, you’ll be well on your way to a thriving professional life.
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