New Job Nerves

Plasticman

Just a reminder - they picked you at the interview because you were better than the other candidates. They clearly feel that you can do the job and you know you've got a lot of experience. That's a pretty good place to start. Any employer will understand that you're going to need some time to get settled in and get up to speed.

Anxiety is perfectly normal when you're starting a new job - you just need to find the best way to make it manageable. Different people will find different methods helpful. I generally use preparation and lists. Putting some structure around the things that are making me anxious helps me to manage situations where I don't feel in control. Some people find it helps to talk it through with a friend or partner, other people don't. When you work out what helps remember that for next time! 

Marcon

Rosco32 said:

piesagittariusstick said:

Your "fears" are 110% relatable - I think it's completely normal to feel anxious before your first day at a new job. I doubt anyone can be "at ease" that early on.

Btw, have you been switching jobs a lot on the past? If yes, then you know that the best way to make things work is to be yourself and focus on becoming a valuable team member before long. So, since you got the know-how and don't need much guidance, I'm sure you'll fit right in even during your first week there!  

Thank you. I've been in my current job just over a year, and prior to that I was in my previous job for two years. I left that role, and I'm leaving this role as there has been quite a few redundancies, and with a mortgage to pay like so many others I decided to jump ship. I think the nervousness is because this is a big law firm I am going to work for and the expectations are high. I can do the role, I think I just need a word with myself!

Stupid as it might sound, when you are somewhere on your own with a mirror (family jeering never helps!), look in the mirror and chant, out loud, a mantra along the lines of 'I can do this job. I am going to be a success' or whatever you fancy. Say it with conviction and you may well start to believe it. See the lyrics of https://www.stlyrics.com/lyrics/thekingandi/iwhistleahappytune.htm

Remember, too, that there is only ever one first day in any new job.

Good luck!

Brie

Don't eat too late the night before and have all your stuff ready for the morning well in advance.  Lunch made, breakfast prepped, shirt ironed (or whatever).  Car full of petrol or train ticket purchased etc.  

Avoid too much caffeine.  It revs our brains and makes us ready to conquer the world but also revs our anxiety.  So maybe have a chamomile tea instead or have a less robust expresso.  

Do you have someone you can chat with on the phone before you go in to the office?  A best mate of some sort who can do a bit of cheerleading.  Failing that you could play the theme tune from Rocky while you run up the steps to the employer's front door. (well maybe not).  

Any time you feel a bit overwhelmed stop for a second and take a deep breath.  Don't forget to exhale.  It's all naturally calming.  That's why it's a basic thing in meditation.  

Have something to look forward to at the end of the day.  A first day prize.  Your favourite pizza or.  And maybe ensure you've got some aspirin - first days always give me a headache.  I think it's all that clenching my face to ensure I'm smiling all the time.  

Finally just remember everyone else there survived their first day so why shouldn't you?  

Best of luck and well done on the new role!!!

Charlotte_Ca

Brie said:

Have something to look forward to at the end of the day.  A first day prize.  Your favourite pizza.

All your points were good, but this is really good as well! We need to reward ourselves when we achieve something.

Dakta

Don't really have any magic solutions for anxiety but nerves suggest you're taking it seriously. it's not a bad thing but do try and enjoy it, maybe it (even at a subconscious level) means a lot to you

Rosco32

Thank you everyone. Some really useful advice there. Good point about the aspirin, Brie. I'm pretty well organised, even down to the point of pre-booking parking to help reduce any stress. I'll report back next week how my first day was

RobM99

They selected you so think "I'm the best!" - plainly you are.

Rosco32

I’m on my second week and I’m really enjoying it. Everyone is brilliant and so helpful. Was worrying about nothing!

Dakta

That's really good to hear, thanks for updating us!