A Letter to the First Timers

There’s something about the “firsts” that stays with you. Whether it’s your first time at a new school, your first day at a new job, or even the first week in a new role—you never forget how those moments made you feel. For many, that feeling is excitement, but for others, it’s pure anxiety. And let’s be honest—it’s often a blend of both.

I still remember my first day at my first “real” job after college. I walked into the office after the Memorial Day holiday and felt nothing. Nothing new or nothing old; just more of the same. Now, for me: I had interned at O'Brien & Gere for about 2-3 summers and had a job offer when I graduated so the dress code, people, location, lunch menu... was all the same. My biggest revelation was that I didn't go back to school. Summer had come and gone, and the work was still there, and so was I. It was a wake-up call that it was going to be all the same from here on out. Get up and go to work, day in and day out. So I'd better be sure I liked it.

So, this is my letter to you: the first-timers, the ones navigating the unknown. Here's some wisdom I can impart from my first job nearly 20 years ago:

There's No Cheering Section

As an athlete, I was used to a team and the fans cheering you on.

There’s a scene in The Devil Wears Prada where Andy, fresh out of college, faces a barrage of judgment from her colleagues. She’s not the right kind of assistant for Miranda Priestly’s high standards. The sense of belonging and personality are sometimes hard to find in the workplace. It will come, but if it doesn't, maybe the culture at the company you chose isn't right for you. If you like the job and what the company stands for, then remember: not everyone will be in your corner—and that’s okay.

What matters is that you like you. You earned your spot. You’re here because someone saw value in you, even if you’re not sure of the impact you're making just yet. Your job is to show up, learn, contribute, and grow. As I say to my kids: "If you want to, you will."

“Fake It Till You Make It”—But Make It Your Own

We’ve all heard the phrase “fake it till you make it,” and while there’s some truth to it, I want to redefine it a bit. Faking it doesn’t mean you’re pretending to be someone you’re not, you're pretending to have all the answers, or you're pretending to like the job—it means you’re stepping into a version of yourself that already exists, but you haven’t fully met yet.

Life is about doing new things. Your job is to try, learn, make mistakes, and learn again. Everyone started where you are, including those people who seem like they have it all figured out. In fact, if you don’t know something, you’re actually in the best position to ask all the “dumb” questions—because guess what? You’re new. That’s your superpower. You don't have any preconceived notions; you don't do it that way because you always have. The newbies often have the best eye for opportunities for change, so embrace it.

Value Your Time—You Won’t Get It Back

One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that your time is your most valuable asset, and once you spend it, you don’t get it back. You've probably heard me say this 100x in these articles already. Don’t waste it sitting with the “mean kid” at the table just because you’re afraid to sit alone. Don't waste it implementing to a process that feels antiquated or painful to complete. Don't waste it listening to a boss who doesn't have the background, skill, and facts to make the call. Don't waste it watching the promotion you deserved go to someone else. Don’t pour your energy into something or someone just because you think you have to.

Choose a job that builds a career for you, one that you feel inspired by and appreciated at. You have the right to choose where your time and effort go. If a project, a relationship, or a directive doesn’t make sense, it’s okay to step back, reassess, and either dive deeper or move on. Trust that the right opportunities—and the right people—will value you for who you are, and what you bring to the table.

In a world driven by agendas, make sure you set yourself first.

Remember: You Were Hired

Whether it’s your first week at a new company or your first day in a new role, there’s one thing I need you to remember: they hired you. You earned this. Your potential and your presence are enough. When you show up as yourself, imperfections and all, that’s when the real magic happens.

Build Your Own Cheerleading Squad

At work, in the lunch room, and in life; not everyone will cheer you on. But some people will. Find those people. Whether it’s a mentor at your new job, a colleague who’s been in your shoes, or even a friend outside of work, build your circle of support. These people will remind you of your worth, the value of your time, and the impact you are making on the lives of others around you.

In the end, you don’t have to “earn” everyone’s approval—you just have to show up for yourself, consistently, and put in the effort. The rest will follow.