Fresh Start- a note to young professionals!

Innocently, he asked, "Mam, soon I am going to start my professional journey and feeling a little anxious about what this new world will be like. I don't know how I'm going to perform, do my work, and be professional. What is it like to work in a corporate environment? Can you share something from your experience?"

While answering, I could relate to the feelings from the early days of my career. Trust me, feeling this is very natural because you are entering a new and unfamiliar world where everybody acts and behaves a little more mature and is responsible for their career.

Until graduation or post-grad, you grew up in a safe environment—nothing very challenging. You were focused only on learning. Now is a time for implementation and showing what you know and how you perform. It can definitely make you a little nervous.?

However, believe me, this is going to be an interesting journey of learning, self-reflection, mistakes, building your value system , and self-awareness.

Now a few points to soothe your nerves:

1. Initially, you will be hired as a fresher (as an Executive, Associate, or Management Trainee), which means the company understands that you are not an expert and so only tasks matching your calibre will be given. Just make sure you perform really well with the least number of mistakes.

2. In the first few months (4-6 months), observe people in their tasks-how they write emails, attend meetings, how they talk to each other and to the boss, just absorb the environment and build good habits.?

3. Ask your team if anyone needs your help, even if it's as simple as a data tally or document organization. You will undoubtedly learn something in the process. Keep your eyes open and help people. You are not only helping them but also building a rapport with them.?

4. Request feedback from your boss on areas for improvement and how things can be done differently. You can take initiative here by walking up to the boss with your to-do list.

5. Most companies provide initial training through a buddy system or allow you to shadow an experienced professional to learn the tasks, so don't be concerned. You can also ask for buddy help in the initial days to settle in and learn the rules.

In the early days, just be curious and open to learning and accepting feedback, and ignore the petty politics since you have a long way to go.

I hope this gave you some perspective on your new journey. You can always reach out to me here: [email protected]