- Feeling overwhelmed and anxious on your first day of your first job makes you normal. According to Timothy Luzader, director at the Center for Career Opportunities at Purdue University, once a person realizes the steep learning curve, a new job can be very overwhelming. Luzader says, "It's completely normal to experience anxiety during your first several days, even weeks, of work."
- Learn as much as you can about the company you will be working for before your first day. Find out about your position, and talk to people in similar jobs to get a feeling for the job expectations. Be ready with your questions about your position and the company on the first day; your manager probably will be impressed with your preparedness.
- Walk with confidence into your job; they are happy to see you. Realize that you are not expected to walk into the job with all the knowledge you need. Your management team is there to teach you the job functions and expectations. Take time to learn; you will be surprised how quickly your comfort level and knowledge improve.
- Do the best job you can do on your first day, and don't worry about anything else. Most companies allow a learning period of 60 to 90 days before your performance will be reviewed. Don't stress yourself to learn too quickly, because that can cause you to make more mistakes. If you show a positive attitude with an optimistic outlook on your abilities, you give your employer confidence in his hiring decision.
- If your anxiety becomes severe and limits your daily activities, seek medical attention. A low level of anxiety is normal and necessary, according to the Mayo Clinic. But severe anxiety that causes an interruption in living a normal life might require treatment.
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