10 Things You MUST Know Before You Start Your First Job
After many cover letters revisions and unanswered emails you’ve finally landed your first job after college. Congrats — it’s a [tough job market] (http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/09/upshot/2015-was-a-great-year-for-jobs-2016-will-have-a-hard-time-matching-it.html) out there. But as you lay out your best clothes for your first day at work and you start to get the jitters, relax, that’s totally normal and completely understandable. There’s really no good way to prepare for full-time employment, and while your parents might have made it look easy, it’s actually not. You’ll probably falter a little, but in the end we know you’ll land on your feet. To help prepare you for this journey, we thought we’d let you in on 10 little secrets that no one tells you about your first job.
1/10You won’t understand anything
No, for real, almost nothing. You may come out of college thinking you know everything, and you’re probably really smart, but being thrust into a full-time role is another story. It might be a steep learning curve, but don’t worry, no one expects you to be an expert on the first day. Employers hire for potential, and will be happy to help you grow. Just don’t be afraid to ask questions!
2/10You’ll probably have to do menial tasks
It’s a common stereotype that millennials are lazy and don’t want to do work that’s beneath them. But the reality is, most entry-level jobs require some sort of unglamorous task. So don’t be too shocked if someone asks you to make copies or get water. Take on every assignment with vigor, and you’ll be rewarded for your positive attitude.
3/10You’ll be totally exhausted by the end of your first day
You really won’t know exhaustion until about week two of your first job. You might suddenly look up and realize your room is a tornado, you haven’t worked out in forever, and your hair hasn’t been washed in days. Fear not, this is totally normal. Expending constant, consistent energy across a whole day is a new thing for your body. Just make sure you’re getting enough sleep so you’ll be able to stay on top of your new, busy schedule.
4/10Your hours probably won’t be 9 to 5
Since your boss can basically reach you at anytime of the day regardless of where you’re physically located, you’ll probably be clocking in more than 40 hours per week. Accept it, don’t fight it, but be sure to check if you’re eligible for overtime pay.
5/10You won’t have your own office
TV shows and movies often portray young people having big corner offices, lots of snacks, and a ton of flexibility in their schedules. But the reality is you’ll be lucky if you have your own desk. The upside? Sharing is caring and you’ll probably make a bunch of new friends.
6/10You’ll suddenly need four cups of coffee a day
Never really thought about a coffee break before? Well, get ready to meet your new best friend: caffeine.
7/10You’ll have difficulty finding time for yourself
Everything from working out to going to the dentist will seem impossible. But in order to be a good employee it’s important to make time to take care of yourself. If you’re sick, you can’t work anyway.
8/10You will never appreciate weekends more
If you think you liked weekends before, get ready to love them even more. Friday afternoon is a magical time where you’ll feel unprecedented amounts of happiness. And yes, Sunday nights will still be the most terrible thing ever.
9/10You might feel confused about if this is the right job for you
This is totally normal. You might have spent weeks, maybe even months convincing yourself during the interview process that this is the career for you. Then you get there, and realize that it doesn’t suit you. Don’t panic. Plenty of people switch jobs — multiple times — in their 20s. Just make sure you’re learning, asking questions, and figuring out what will truly make you happy.
10/10Nothing feels as good as your first paycheck
No really. As tough as the first months might be, nothing really beats being financially independent.
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