Starting a new job can be nerve-racking.

Maybe you’re a recent graduate, and you’ve just landed a job in your field. Perhaps you’ve been in the workforce for years, but you’ve just transitioned to a very different industry or you are out of your ‘wheelhouse’, and you feel much like you are starting over again.

If you are diving into a new job with less experience, you’re bound to feel anxious as you get ready for your first day. During your first weeks on the job, you might feel out of place as you learn your way around. However, with some helpful hints and coping skills, you can get your anxiety under control and make the most of your new job. Here are a few tips and tricks to approach the start of your career with confidence.

Remember Why You’re There

Sometimes, simply reminding yourself why you’re at your new job in the first place can help boost your mood. The hiring manager chose to bring you on board for a reason. Perhaps a friend referred you to the job because they thought your talents perfectly suited the position. Maybe your creative portfolio impressed a recruiter.

Focus on the reason you earned your new position, including reviewing your many strengths, and remember that the people who hired you have confidence in you! 

Show Up Prepared & Encouraged 

Having a structured morning routine to get ready can help allow you to start each day at your new job on the right foot. Make sure that you give yourself plenty of time to tackle your morning to-do list and pack up everything you need for the day.

Try to include parts of your morning that uplift you such as a wake-up song, a few yoga stretches, reciting a poem, quote, or song lyric that makes you smile. You could make an energizing playlist for your commute or listen to an upbeat or engaging audiobook or podcast. You can also take steps the night before to make your morning easier, like packing your lunch or choosing your outfit for the next day. In these virtual times, continue to consider a choice that helps you feel inspired. 

Ask for Help

When you’re facing a challenge at work, and are unsure of how to solve the problem, consider finding someone to point you in the right direction, and allow yourself to feel comfortable asking one of your coworkers (even now virtually!). Your new team wants to see you succeed! If you need further guidance, you can also talk to your manager.

Tackling obstacles on your own is great, but during your first few weeks and even months at a new job, people expect you to have questions, and they will probably be happy to help. Remember that everyone was new once and that these questions can lead to additional learning, connections and relationships. 

Look for Learning Opportunities

How can you make the most of your new job? Outside of getting your workload complete, you can also look for new ways to learn and grow. Learning new skills and programs on the job will help you become more confident with time.

As you master new skills, you’ll be able to take on bigger, more exciting projects. When you have the opportunity to try something new, consider taking it, even if you know it might be difficult. Learning at work will help you feel more engaged at your job and prepare you for the next phase of your career.

Celebrate Your Wins

Occasionally, you’ll have a rough day at work, even when you’ve put in your best effort. And if you spend more time focusing on and including your wins rather than simply highlighting your mistakes, you’ll feel more confident and balanced.

When you get home from work each day, think about what went right. Keep up with this exercise even on days that left you feeling discouraged (and especially on those days!)! You’ll be surprised by how many “wins” you really have.

Are you struggling to manage anxiety and feel confident as you start or continue on in your career? Therapy can help. Contact the Relationship Counseling Center of Austin for support in career development and exploration. Reach out today to discuss your options for scheduling your first session by calling (512) 270-4883, or requesting an appointment on the RCC Austin Scheduling page.