Starting a New Job
Tips and Advice from Day One Onwards
Starting a new job can be a daunting process. Whether you’re a graduate looking for your first job, or simply seeking temporary admin work, it can be nerving to consider what kind of job choice to take, how to make the best impression, whether you choose to make a career out of it – and a whole host of other questions.
First things first. It’s going to take you a little while to settle into your new role. You won’t be expected to know everything on your first few days, so don’t panic about coming across as the most knowledgeable person in the office. As long as you listen, seem keen and continue to be pro-active, you’ll earn points with the people who matter.
On your first day, make sure you ask lots of questions. It’s far better to admit you don’t know how to do something, rather than have your seniors assume you do and then repeatedly get it wrong as you trial and error.
Make sure you have your own stock of basic office supplies (a pen, a notebook etc.) to show willing and diligence in taking notes and being prepared. Try to integrate with your colleagues on lunchtimes, team days out and after-work drinks; these are the people you’ll be working with on a daily basis and getting to know and their interests could serve you well if you decide to pursue a career with the company.
If you do choose to go into the admin sector, be aware of the different levels of responsibility before you apply. Administrative work covers an extremely large area, so define your skills before singling out jobs.
Working in the field of administration, responsibilities range from dealing with correspondence, typing, word processing, taking minutes from meetings, preparing presentations and reports, monitoring office supplies, answering the telephone, filing, and meeting/greeting guests and visitors in reception.
Conveniently for many, admin work generally spans from 9 – 5.30 (standard office hours), with lots of opportunity for part-time work or flexi-hours in both the private and public sector – spanning everything from government to media.
When applying for such jobs, you should tailor your CV to read that you have excellent communication, organisation and time management skills, as well as good interpersonal skills with an ability to stick to deadlines.
There are approximately 4.7 million people employed within business administration, and taking an internship or some sort of work experience to get you in the door is extremely useful. Those with any experience in administration shows a good foundation any office job, with an understanding and practice of organisation and management.
Generally keeping a positive outlook in your new job (be it admin or any other sector) will show your colleagues that you are dedicated and enthusiastic. Keep an open mind and be willing to learn. Who knows – you could progress into managing your own admin team and find a career you enjoy for life.
