PICTURE THIS: You tap “end call” and look up from your phone, grinning from ear to ear. Enduring the excruciating process of updating resumes, filling out applications, and surviving a series of interviews has finally paid off. The job of your dreams is finally yours. Now what?

Ramping up for the Big Day

Revel in the idea of your impending life change, but don’t allow yourself to get sucked down the rabbit hole of “what-ifs.” Instead, find ways to keep your mind occupied as you wait to start your new job.

My best advice to combat this is keeping busy with self-care. It’s natural to be a little nervous, but don’t let a bit of overthinking psych yourself out. Out of the sea of applicants, the company of your dreams picked you and for good reason! You can also embrace the idea of a fresh start with a haircut or some new duds. Even a tiny trim or new shirt to wear on your first day can work wonders on keeping that confidence high!

If a little self-care doesn’t curb those pre-first day jitters, talk it through with someone you trust. They’ll be more than happy to remind you how awesome you are and how ready you are for this big change.

Don’t forget to make time to tackle any recurring worries head on BEFORE the big day. If you’re unsure about your new commute, for example, do some quick research. Search your route using the desktop version of Google Maps and you’ll be able to see approximate travel times based on when you’d like to arrive at your destination. If the idea of trusting an algorithm doesn’t put you at ease, hop in the car for a test run or two. It also wouldn’t hurt to plan on leaving 15 minutes early your first day so you don’t feel rushed.

Adjustment Period

The big day is finally here. Thanks to last week’s preparation, you know your route and arrive on time. The age of unknown ends the moment you walk through those doors and there’s no going back. If you’re nervous, take a deep breath. You’ve totally got this.

The first day at a new job is a lot like the first day of school. No matter what field you are in, the next few weeks have a similar path. You are going to be hit with a TON of info and, let’s be honest, not all of it will sink in right away. That’s perfectly ok.

You’re new and no one expects you to have all the answers. In fact, they’d probably think something’s a little fishy if you did. This is a great opportunity to learn who knows what and bond with your coworkers.

Another thing you need to understand (and accept) is that you are going to make mistakes. Yes, it’s going to happen. When it does, don’t beat yourself up. Learn where the disconnect was and adjust next time.

Assimilation

For those of you who haven’t been reading our blogs or following me on Twitter, this is where I am now. I’ve gotten to know my fellow ‘Peggers and my desk has been all tricked out. Although I’m still asking questions here and there, the expectations of my role are pretty clear at this point. I’ve gotten most of our processes down and am super excited to get more involved in outside events like Digital Toolbox later this month.

All in all, change can be scary. But with a little preparation and a can-do attitude, moving into a new work setting can be pain-free, or dare I say, even fun! 

Editor’s Note: We have welcomed Britt to Roundpeg, and she is already bringing new ideas and a bit of fun to the little white house. Keep up with her adventures by following her on Twitter.  @brittybauser