Whilst many students are returning to study for their degree this September, many graduates have now finished their studies, and find themselves starting out in the workplace.
2014 has seen the graduate job market improve and prospects for graduates are increasing as more employees are seeing the benefits of hiring young and enthusiastic people with good qualifications. Though university can provide students with vital transferable skills, it cannot offer real experience in the professional world of work. Some graduates may feel daunted about entering ‘the real world’ and feel inexperienced.
It is important to feel confident in your abilities when entering the workplace, particularly after many years of hard work studying for a degree! Even though you may be new to the working world, you have an important part to play in the company you work for and confidence will enable you to present yourself as a valuable member of the team.
So how can you feel more confident when starting out in the workplace?
Begin a routine
Many students get into a routine of sleeping late and waking late; working in their pyjamas and answering to only themselves. The world of work is very different to student life, so make sure you are ready for this change. Even if you think you are ready, your body may not have caught up with you. So begin by going to bed early for at least a week before your first day. Your body will thank you for it as you adapt to full time work.
Research the company
Research the company you are working for before you start. What do they do? How do they do it? What are their strengths and weaknesses? You don’t have to be an expert, you will learn as you go, but a little prior research will help you feel more confident in your first week.
Understand the role
This sounds a little obvious, but it is important to know what you will be doing in your new role. If the recruiters have not been very specific, you can ask for an outline of your duties. It’s fine to ask questions once you start, everyone has been the ‘newbie’ at some point in their lives and the more you understand your role, the more confident you will feel in your ability to be the best you can be.
Believe in yourself
University provides students with a wealth of experience including working to deadlines, self-motivation and building relationships with people. All of these skills are transferable (and vital) to the workplace. You will come across new experiences and new problems in the workplace, but your current skills will help you to adapt. You have been hired because you are the best person for the job – so believe in yourself and others will too.
Invest in confidence coaching
At DIRECTions coaching we offer confidence coaching for individuals who could benefit from some positive encouragement to improve their personal or professional life. As a graduate entering the workplace for the first time and feeling lost, you may benefit from confidence coaching. At DIRECTions, we can help you build up your feelings of confidence so you can succeed in the workplace.
London based Anne Taylor has a wealth of experience coaching young people to fulfil their potential in and out of the workplace. Anne is passionate about everyone she works with and believes that everyone is capable of feeling confident and improving their life.
For more information on life coaching or to discuss a consultation, Anne Taylor can be contacted on 0203 1516830.
