5 mistakes to avoid at your first job

Copping a negative attitude

Whether you’re bored, disappointed in your choice or just see your first job as a temporary means to an end, it’s important to come to work every day with a positive mindset. Even if you think a particular task you’ve been assigned is “beneath you,” it is critical that you never express this to colleagues. Instead, focus on what you can do to perform well and use the job as an opportunity to learn more about the industry and attain new skills.

Not maintaining a clean social media presence

Just because you are no longer searching for a job doesn’t mean you should become lax about what you post on social media. Wave goodbye to the days of not caring about whether you’re tagged in a photo from a party the night before.

This is especially true if you choose to befriend colleagues on these sites! As a general rule, be sure to maintain your privacy settings and avoid posting anything that can be misinterpreted or deemed inappropriate and unprofessional.

And, of course, do not post anything that paints your employer or job in a negative light. In addition to what you post, be mindful of when you post. While at work, avoid checking your phone for notifications or updating your status. If someone at the office happens to walk by, they may question your priorities and frame of mind.

Oversocializing

It can be tempting to integrate into social groups at your first job as soon as possible, but be wary of over-socializing.

Don’t spend so much time getting chummy with your co-workers that you don’t focus enough on your work and be sure to steer clear of gossip. Getting involved in any negative talk in the workplace is a sure-fire way to lose your colleagues’ trust, especially as a new addition to the team.

Acting timid

Starting a new job — especially your first one — can be a nerve-wracking experience. It’s normal to feel intimidated and unprepared for life in the “real word,” but it’s also important to remember that you were hired for a reason. Despite lacking concrete experience, your employer saw potential in you that they are willing to cultivate, so be confident in your abilities and speak up!

Ask questions at the appropriate time, volunteer to assist with time-sensitive projects and take the initiative to develop any skills you feel would benefit your performance. This will show your manager that you take your job seriously and are interested in professional growth and a future with the company. The more effort you put into learning the business and doing your work well, the more willing they will be to train you and expand your responsibilities.

Being too confident

While it’s important to be proactive and not too timid, being overly confident could give off an air of arrogance or conceitedness. This is your first job, so don’t assume you know everything. Instead, be open to learning from others and developing your existing strengths. Yes, it’s good to take the reins and show initiative — but only once you’ve gained an understanding of your role and do your best to absorb all you can from your superiors and co-workers first. If you avoid these first job mistakes, there will be plenty of time to show off your skills.