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A new career path can be both thrilling and disconcerting. Understanding that feelings of nervousness are expected and very frequent no matter what the level of your career you are embarking upon. When starting a new job, this is your chance to clean the slate. First impressions are not only significant but can be permanent ones. Make sure you do everything you can to send the message you are privileged to work for this organization and you will do anything to move your career forward. Leave home early in order to always be on time. Use a direction service to know exactly where you are heading. Factor in an extra 15 minutes in case you run into a traffic jam or some type of freak mishap. Take proper identification with you to fill out your new employee paperwork (if you have not already done so). This could include your passport, a drivers license, social security card, green card or other authorization required to legally work in the US. Know what your exemptions are for tax purposes, and take emergency contact phone numbers for your file. Many companies offer direct salary deposit, and you can expedite that process by bringing a voided check or deposit slip with you to attach to the appropriate forms. Dress professionally, and appropriately for the company you are working for. (When unsure, dress to impress). Make sure your shoes are shined, your clothes are neat and pressed and that you dress conservatively until you understand the company culture. Understand this is the lasting message your current employer will have in their mind. Smile, introduce yourself and treat everyone with respect. Saying please and thank you are the easiest ways to make people comfortable quickly. Please understand that you never understand the chain of command and who reports to whom. Massive amounts of information will be delivered over the first few days. It will take time for it all to be absorbed and understood. Always ask questions…and be sure to take good notes. If you are invited to meetings to observe or contribute, be careful not to jump in too quickly. However, don't be intimidated to share comments and ideas if asked. Be assertive and not frightened to convey a meaningful thought and or message. Change is always Complicated no matter how much you prepare. You will likely miss your old, familiar surroundings and colleagues with whom you have built professional and personal relationships. Be confident, in a few days time, your new surroundings will become more comfortable and recognizable to you. You will settle into your new schedule, develop new relationships at your new company and rapidly progress forward.
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