How to develop a persistent attitude and thrive as a fresher

Statements like ‘I am not learning fast enough’, ‘I thought my growth at the first job would take me place’, and ‘I don’t think I am fit for this job’ are commonplace for freshers. While the sentiment of the freshers may be on point, the truth is that they have to be persistent at the new job for the first few months.

This is a critical time for any new employee, as you’re still learning the ropes and trying to make a good impression. It’s also a time when you’re likely to feel overwhelmed and stressed. But it’s important to remember that everyone has to start somewhere, and it’s perfectly normal to make mistakes.

According to Anand Khatri, Professor at Apeejay Institute of Technology – School of Architecture & Planning (AIT SAP) in Greater Noida, separating self from social existence is important. “Work is never just a job, it’s a community, a social setup. The Indian socially engaged mind is not at ease in an altered environment. It judges itself in acceptance, appropriateness, and desirability amongst the new colleagues. The first month in a job is thus a liability of reorganisation, not just of the time-space, but of self-esteem too,” Khatri said.

Therefore, persistence is an output of quality, punctuality, and effort, he opined. “Newness is thus an overload on the senses and hence tiring. To stay persistent in a new work it is important not to focus on social space or people. A focused approach to work, without our self and social tentacles, will make us persistent in a new workspace, or else the overload will sap all energy,” Khatri shared.

Here are a few tips to help you stay motivated and focused

Be proactive. Don’t wait for your manager to come to you with assignments. Ask for work, and volunteer to help out on projects. This shows that you’re eager to learn and contribute to the team.

Be willing to learn. The first few months on a new job are a time of rapid learning. Be open to feedback and criticism, and always be looking for ways to improve your skills.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re struggling with something, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your manager, colleagues, or other HR professionals. Everyone is there to help you succeed.

Take breaks. It’s important to take breaks throughout the day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Get up and move around, or step outside for some fresh air. This will help you stay refreshed and focused.

Find a mentor. Having a mentor can be a great way to get support and guidance during your first few months on the job. A mentor can help you learn the ropes, navigate the company culture, and answer any questions you have.

It’s also important to remember that it takes time to adjust to a new job and feel comfortable in your new role. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t feel like you’re up to speed right away. Just keep working hard, learning, and asking for help, and you’ll be well on your way to success.

Additional tips that may be helpful

1. It’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself, both in terms of what you can accomplish and how long it will take you to get up to speed.
2. It’s important to take care of yourself physically and mentally, especially during your first few months on a new job.
3. Don’t overwork yourself, and make sure to schedule time for activities that you enjoy outside of work.

“Starting a new job can be both exciting and challenging. The first month on the job is often a crucial period where you must make a positive impression and adapt to a new environment,” Dr Garima Sharma, Assistant Professor at Apeejay Stya University said and shared to maintain a positive outlook.

• Before you even start your new job, take some time to set clear goals for yourself.
• The first month of a new job is a learning curve. Be prepared to absorb a lot of information, ask questions, and seek guidance when needed.
• Developing a daily routine can help you stay organised and focused. Create a schedule that allows you to allocate time for different tasks, including learning, networking, and completing your job responsibilities.
• Don’t be afraid to seek feedback on your performance. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas where you need improvement.
• The initial period in a new job can be challenging, and you may encounter setbacks or moments of doubt. Stay positive and patient with yourself.

“Remember, staying persistent during the first month of a new job is vital for your long-term success and career growth. Embrace the challenges and opportunities that come your way, and remember that persistence, combined with a positive attitude, can help you thrive in your new role and beyond,” Dr Sharma said in conclusion.

The first month of a new job is a learning curve. Be prepared to absorb a lot of information, ask questions, and seek guidance when needed

–Dr Garima Sharma, Assistant Professor at Apeejay Stya University