Finishing full time study and settling in to a professional job
can be both exciting and a little scary. You can expect your
first few weeks to be both exhausting and exhilarating. As
well as learning the tasks in your new role, you also need
to take the time to get to know the culture, management,
clients and colleagues.
Everyone’s experience will be different, but below is a
snapshot of what to expect and tips to successfully navigate
the transition.
Your first weeks...

c
P There will be a mass of information to absorb: you will
be introduced to new people, shown a new office and
given lots of details about the organisation and your
position.

c
P Try to remember people’s names and positions.
Sketch a map of the desk or office layout and
pencil in names to keep track.

c
P Understand what is expected of you. When in doubt,
ask.

c
P Follow others’ lead. No one expects you to understand
the subtleties of an organisation’s culture in the first
week so look around and learn from the positive
behaviour of others.

c
P Attend social gatherings. A great way to increase your
comfort levels is by joining company sports teams
or going for an after work drink. Much knowledge is
gained outside the office walls!
Your first months...

c
P You need to focus on performance and relationships.
Work hard, work smart and get to know others.

c
P Focus on learning your job and doing it really well.

c
P Ask for feedback; listen to the feedback; apply
the feedback.

c
P Find a mentor. If you are not part of a formal mentoring
program, starting looking out for someone to approach.
Graduate Opportunities 2009
The value of advice and guidance from someone who’s
‘been there, done that’ can’t be underestimated.
Find
your groove
ing
2
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