So, you have just landed your first graduate job! Whether it’s the job of your dreams or a sidestep while you work towards your goals – your first year lays the foundation for your career. This is why you need to make sure you make your first year is a good one by challenging yourself and enhancing your skills. To make sure you have a beneficial first year, here are some essential things to do in your first year of work.
Adopt a learning mindset
Employers don’t expect you to know everything about your industry or company; however, they do expect you to be a self-starter who is eager to learn. Take the time to learn the what, why, and how of projects and processes. Ask questions, but also show some initiative through your own research. Admit to, correct and learn from any mistakes you make along the way. Reach out when you’re stuck but avoid being seen as too needy. After all, you were hired because your employer believes you have the brains to figure things out.
Network as much as you can
In your first year as a graduate don’t hold back when it comes to how involved you are. Attend all of the different types of events within your organisation whether it be a team lunch or all-hands conference. Be eager and enthusiastic about meeting different people in the organisation and learn more about how the company operates from different perspectives.
Strive to be better than average
You could easily kick back and breeze through your first year without giving much more than average effort. But, if you’re looking to establish a solid and long-lasting career in your organisation (or anywhere, for that matter) – you must spend your first year developing a strong, positive, and reliable personal brand. Aim to be memorable, responsible, and dependable so you can set yourself up for success.
Get a mentor
Whether in your organisation, in your discipline, or in your industry – working with a strong mentor will help you develop faster. But it’s important you’re compatible, so make sure you find the right fit for your personality and needs.
Enjoy It!
This final point is the most important one – it’s very easy to get a little bit nervous and stressed in your first year, which is pretty understandable. But don’t worry about getting the odd thing wrong; it’s how you learn at the end of the day. Enjoy your experience in the working world and try to soak up as much knowledge as possible as this will stand you in good stead in the future. If you spend your whole time worrying about things, then you’ll just find yourself making silly mistakes.
Following these suggestions will make for a more worthwhile experience for you, while balancing some of the stress and struggles of a brand-new work environment. If you’re looking for an exciting new career opportunity, make sure you click through to our website.
