First-day frights at a job are very common. You may fear not getting along with your co-workers or your ability to perform your role adequately. As you spend more time in your position, we hope to get used to our work and gain more confidence, but sometimes those initial fears persist. We may wonder if those nervous feelings are just a part of us and will last forever. There is no overnight solution, but we can take steps to lower our nerves and gain more confidence while working any job!
Show-Off Your Worth
You may be unconfident since you think your work is not up to snuff, but you will never know how your work stacks up unless you show your results. Yes, this does open you up to potential criticism, but this is necessary to get over your fears. In the long run, it is much better to face negative feedback now than to always constantly feel unsure of yourself. Opening yourself up also allows for potential praise, which will do wonders for your confidence and allow you to blossom in your work and feel much better about yourself!
Small Talk is Big
We know that making small talk does not result in the most exciting or deep conversations, but it is a solid start to allow you to form deeper connections at work. Getting to know your peers can help show that you are not the only one facing confidence issues. Knowing that others out there are facing similar issues helps show that you are not alone and should not feel ashamed for needing help. If you do make an awkward first impression, it is not the end of the world! Everyone has had awkward conversations in the past; no one will hold it against you.
Volunteer First
This will require some initial confidence, but volunteering for a task or raising your hand first to answer a question can build your confidence even more. We know that it can be nerve-wracking to put yourself out there, but doing so is very brave and will win you points with your peers and supervisors. Even if you mess up, taking risks with others will not only build your character, but it will also prove to yourself that you can take risks. Plus, every mistake is a learning opportunity!
Lighten Up
Constantly trying as hard as possible to be super serious at work will keep you on edge, never letting your guard up, loosening up, and having fun. Having a bit of levity will lower the tension in the air and allow you to see that your work may not be as scary as you thought. As we keep hammering in, there is nothing wrong with messing up. Embrace that you will mess up; this is necessary to improve your confidence at work.
Want more help with your career? Connect with us at Wrights Resumes and Connections to learn more today!
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