When you are stepping into your first job, you need to be prepared for the workplace. Here are five tips you can follow:
- Be organised
- Manage your time
- Build professional relationships
- Have a professional attitude
- Be mentally prepared
Being prepared for the workplace will be noted by your boss. It will show that you care about your job and that you are willing to walk the extra mile. It will also have a positive effect on your work ethic, as being prepared makes the job easier.
Be organised
When you are taking on a new job with plenty of new responsibilities, it can become overwhelming. That is why you need to plan ahead. You can do this by:
- Creating a work calendar
- Listing your tasks
- Keeping a daily journal
- Setting up a filing system for yourself
- Keeping your computer organised (not opening too many tabs)
Being organised will also make it easier to work under pressure. During stressful times you won’t have to worry about where everything is or what to do.
Manage your time
In order to get all your tasks done, plan how much time you want to spend on them beforehand. To predict how much time you will need will get easier over time as you learn from each day’s work.
Planning your time can be done on your daily journal or calendar. Make sure to set up your time schedule a few days before, so that you are ready for each day. It is also important to make space for unexpected situations, such as load shedding or having technical difficulties.
Build professional relationships
Having good relationships with your colleagues is a crucial part of your development in the workplace. The people you work with on a daily basis will have a huge influence on how well you do your job.
Let your colleagues know that they can always press on your button. This way they know that you are someone who cares.
Communication is the glue that keeps an office together. It is important to keep your colleagues informed about how you are keeping up with the work and what you need from them.
Have a professional attitude
A professional attitude has many aspects, such as:
The way you dress
Make sure to choose outfits that are professional, appropriate and fit the company’s style. The way you dress is one of the first things people notice about you. Make it count.
The way you talk
Remember to keep your conversations professional and minimize casual slang. Keep in mind that a workplace is a space for professional excellence, so embrace it.
The way you deal with stress
In stressful times it may be hard to keep your emotions intact. Here are some dos and don’ts:
Dos:
- Talk to your boss about your workload.
- Take a break.
- Get enough sleep.
- Start earlier with tasks.
Don’ts:
- Don’t let your personal life intrude.
- Make sure not to overwork yourself.
- Stay away from conflict, especially when you are stressed.
- Don’t just stay away from work when it gets stressful.
Be mentally prepared
To mentally prepare yourself for the workplace, you need to take time to process what is expected from you and what your expectations from the company are .
Before you walk into an office, prepare your mind by making a list of what you want them to think about you. For example,
“I want them to think I’m energetic, positive and kind.”
Then, make a list of the things you want to get out of the working experience. For example,
“I want to succeed, to have good relationships and to grow.”
Keep your mind busy with these lists, so that you can express those attributes and receive those desires.
Become workplace ready with Bellview
Bellview Institute is a distance learning college that offers a variety of accredited courses. Distance learning is ideal for working individuals looking to boost their career.
Our NATED programs will not only provide you with the necessary skills, but also prepare you for the workplace.
We have the best benefits for our students, including all year round registration and engaging support.
If you are interested in furthering your education, contact us using one of the following ways:
- Give us a call on our toll-free number 0800 39 00 27
- Fill out our contact form at the bottom of the page
- Chat to us on Whatsapp 082 318 8892
Author: Simoné Coetzee
Last Updated: 05 January 2021