The HBCU Career Center

View Original

3 Tips for Your First Year in the Workplace

Photo by George Milton from Pexels

Starting a new job right out of college can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience for emerging professionals. Entering a new work environment means meeting new people, learning the ins and outs of the workplace, and adjusting to your job responsibilities. Most know that settling into your new job can take several weeks or months.

Here are three tips for a successful first year at your new job.

Start building relationships with your colleagues

You’ll be with your co-workers four or five days out of the week, so becoming acquainted with them is essential. If you’re a natural introvert, this tip may not seem attainable within a few weeks, but it can happen over time. So, the next time you have a break during work, chat with your co-workers or offer to buy coffee and donuts for everyone one morning. 

Understand your job’s expectations

Although you may have discussed this during your interview or orientation, reviewing your job expectations with your boss or supervisor doesn't hurt. You can set up a monthly or quarterly meeting with your higher-ups to evaluate job success and any areas that need improvement. This tip is a great way to stay up-to-date on your tasks, ensure that you deliver high-quality work, and show your employers that you genuinely care about being the best at your job. 

Set good habits

The earlier you establish good habits at your new job, the more likely they’ll last. At the start of a new journey in your career, it’s essential to get rid of old routines that may have hindered your productivity at your previous job. 

To help you set good habits, you can:

  • Invest in a planner

  • Update your calendar regularly

  • Create daily to-do lists

Need help editing your resume? Get free resume feedback from expert resume writers today.