Six Things No One Warns You For When You Start A New Job

Everyone has probably lined up to give you their best advice as a recent graduate, from your somewhat older BFF to your favorite college professor, to help you succeed in your first job. However, despite all of their excellent and sage advice, a few things could still catch you off guard. During their first few days on the job, recent grads must be adaptable and vigilant.

Pay attention to how people behave at work so you can start to understand the norms in this unfamiliar setting.

Naturally, you can also read this insider knowledge to make sure nothing catches you off guard while you adjust to your new job.

Relationship development requires effort

You won't find your new best friend the moment you enter a new workplace. Your first job won't be like college or your internship, where you started out alongside other people. There might not be a group of additional beginners you can rely on.

The good news is that your transition will be much easier if you strive to get to know your coworkers and establish friendships.

It's not a show of weakness to ask questions

Many recent grads are hesitant to acknowledge their ignorance on some topics. They worry about appearing inept. But many times, in a new job, asking a question is the best course of action. After all, when confronted with a scenario that overwhelms or confounds you, there are only two choices. Ask questions and seek answers rather than pretending to know what you're doing and hoping you don't make a mistake—which, in reality, you probably will. The second choice requires you to acknowledge your limitations, but it also gives you the opportunity to grow and prevent costly errors.

There is much more to learn

You invested a lot of time and money in your education, so it makes sense that you would believe you have all you need to succeed in the workplace after graduating from college. However, if you share that opinion, we also have some unfavorable news for you: "You'll be very dissatisfied. Each organization has its own way of doing things, so be ready to adapt to different methods and ways of solving difficulties.

You have no influence over the timing

No matter how quickly you complete your tasks, there will frequently be delays that are out of your control. Although it can be frustrating to know that your time—while you're on the clock—is out of your control, remember that all you can do is try your best to meet your own deadlines. Every organization, whether you like it or not, has some degree of red tape.

Being professional is important

Many recent grads struggle to get used to business manners. In other words, you could be astonished to learn that your employer doesn't like the emojis you often include in your emails or the way you address her as "ma'am." Either they write too official emails, or their correspondence is rife with errors and slang. What should a fresh hire do? The secret is to strike the right balance. Although you should always show deference, don't be scared to be yourself as well.