Arguably the most difficult aspect of starting a new job is the feeling of inferiority. That crippling feeling of I have no idea what I’m doing, and oh my god they definitely think I’m an idiot, or the classic who should I ask about the printer inner dialogue. And of course, just as the pattern dictates, within the first few weeks, you find your stride and that feeling of discomfort fades and rumblings of competence sneak back into your mind. Here at NX Direct, we want to put an end to office inferiority once and for all. You got the job, you are totally competent, so act like it! We get it, easier said than done. That’s why we’ve gathered the best tips on office confidence and how to fake it till you make it.
Don’t Fear Mistakes
The strongest signal to a lacking sense of office confidence is the classic common-sense question. Have confidence in your ability and the fact that you have made it this far in life. Try to figure out the printer yourself first before asking around- nothing is worse than nervously asking, just to hear the response “…you press print.” Wait until you have genuine questions, avoid nervous questions. Finding your own bearings and making yourself knowledgeable on your own terms is an immediate sign of confidence that does not go unnoticed by coworkers.
Don’t Fear Conversation
It is always scary jumping into a company’s culture and waiting to see if you’re a fit. However, no one has ever regretted getting off on the right foot with the people they will spend all of their days with for the foreseeable future. The first few days can be overwhelming, give yourself time, but don’t lock yourself in a cubicle in an effort to avoid office conversation.
Don’t Fear Supervisors
At the start of a new job, it is easy to fall into the role of a subordinate, staying quiet, waiting for tasks, executing them efficiently, and reporting back. Of course, every company appreciates hard work and efficiency, but don’t be afraid to create more of a collaborative work relationship with your supervisors. Get to know them on a professional level, ask questions about your assignments rather than just completing the bullet points, ask for feedback, go to their office for an in-person chat, rather than email communication. It is far too easy to work at a company for a year and leave without having formed any professional relationships, but if you play your cards right, you could end up with some amazing experience and a couple of very strong references.
From all of us here at NX Direct, it is our hope that this advice planted a seed of confidence in you, that will propel you into the office tomorrow feeling stronger than ever.