We’re sharing three tips to live by in the first 30 days of a job to help overcome this adjustment period and start your role off on the right foot.
1. Anticipate the full range of emotions
It is normal to feel overwhelmed in the first 30 days of the job. It can be like drinking from a fire hose. There will be hard days when nothing seems to make sense and mistakes are made. There will also be great days when things start to click. Know the hard days will pass and use them as a learning opportunity. Savor the great days and celebrate small wins. Acknowledge progress made, even when it’s hard.
When running into a block or feeling especially frustrated, take a moment to feel the frustration – then let it go. These challenges will get easier over time, so don’t take it too personally when mistakes are made or something doesn’t click right away.
Be honest with management if and when the pressure feels too overwhelming. They are there to provide support, and don’t expect everything to be perfect right away.
2. Stay humble
Go in humble with a good attitude, knowing there will be a lot to learn. Spend time studying the job and researching the industry and take initiative to learn new skills outside of work. The more time spent studying, the faster the improvement, and the sooner the promotion. Take notes in every meeting. It shows a willingness to learn and respect for what others have to say. Re-read the notes afterwards and follow up on action items or ask questions.
If going into the office, try to arrive earlier than management and begin your day making progress towards your goals or executing required trainings. If working virtually, log in early to check emails and messages. This shows initiative and can go far in standing out as a hard worker and gaining others’ trust.
It will take time and effort to get up to speed and performing to the expectations of the role, but work to earn the paycheck each day and don’t be ‘above’ any task.
3. Embrace the culture
Attitude is everything. In the first 30 days, a lot of time is spent learning the ropes, so there may not be a lot of concrete accomplishments or return-on-investment (ROI) to show for time spent working. However, by engaging with the team, offering to help whenever possible, and bringing positivity, hustle, and commitment to the role, this can still leave a strong first impression.
Don’t rush out after work. Stick around and get to know people by asking about themselves and their roles. The relationships built after “hours” are how to truly get to know people. If there is a happy hour, book club, intramural sports team or any other social event, go. It may be awkward at first, and that is ok. Building relationships and making friends at work not only makes the job more fun but can provide alternate perspectives and support while growing into the role.
Give a new job time. 30 days is likely not enough to fully understand the nuances of the culture or learn enough to start making real headway. Put in real effort before hopping back into the job boards because even the most challenging first month could be turned into a successful career.
