You’ve just gone through a month of trying to match schedules and interview discreetly so that your current employer doesn’t get wind that you’re looking to move on. You’ve gone through three face to face interviews, a sampling of testing, and some fierce negotiation- but you finally landed a new job at your dream company- and the scope of work matches your professional development perfectly.

Congratulations! You got the job!

team-clap-800w

After a celebratory dinner with your mom, putting in your two week notice, an exceedingly less awkward two weeks than you anticipated you are finally starting your new job. This is the best thing ever! Except- by the end of your first day you feel like crying and asking your old boss if they will take you back (they probably can’t, so get that idea out of your head now).

When you interviewed you were told about all of the exciting projects and cutting edge work that you would be a part of.

During the interview process you and your new boss were both thinking about what this job would look like after you were acclimated and understood the mechanics of your job. You would have autonomy on projects, you would be closing important deals, and you definitely wouldn’t be asking the receptionist where the bathroom is. Don’t worry it isn’t just you- no one likes to think about transition times, but to secure professional advancement you’re going to have to go through a few growing pains.

First days and weeks are either boring or overwhelming.

With the exception of a few fun perks (new company swag or business cards with your shiny new title) first days are often dull. They’re an overview of policies that might not be relevant to your day-to-day operations, they include information on one-time things, and you tour facilities. This isn’t all thrilling stuff but it is important groundwork to get your feet under you. On the flip side, when you aren’t hearing about life insurance plans you can be doing mass introductions to really importantly people only to realize that you can’t memorize 35 names, titles, and office locations at one time. Try not to worry about this, as you take on more work you will get context to understand the process and who important points of contact might be.

While you’re settling in try to make the most of your adjustment period. You have the gift of ignorance- so no one should be upset with you asking questions and clarifying things that are relevant to your position.

Fortunately, your job isn’t terrible- it is just that first days aren’t indicative of an entire job.