Adventures of a Copywriting Newb: Part 2 – The First Day

Chelsea Oliver

Posted on: May 21, 2013

Posted by: Chelsea Oliver

Categories: Copywriting and tagged

Beginning a new position is daunting, and my first day at Yabsta Digital was no different. While it is easy to let nervousness get in the way, remember that many crucial first impressions are made in those first eight hours. As I mentioned in Part 1, you must be positive and professional.

Proper preparation is key to avoiding feeling overwhelmed. My approach when starting at Yabsta Digital was research, research, research, and then research some more. I memorized the service offerings, as well as key points of the company’s history. I browsed through design portfolios, building confidence in my understanding of the digital agency as a whole. Having this knowledge on the first day will wow your employer and colleagues.


YaBlog Post #3 Image

Industry-specific knowledge is also quite important. If your role involves, for example, search engine optimization and social media, learn as much as you can about those fields. While I was lucky enough to receive some booklets prior to my start date, and spent many hours studying them, not all employers provide training material in advance. It is your responsibility to educate yourself.

Boosting your self confidence is another great way to start off on the right foot. Discuss your new knowledge with a friend or family member, and practice explaining new concepts, such as search engine optimization. If you have a tried-and-true feel-good method, such as a haircut, manicure or afternoon with friends, now’s the time.

Though this may seem cliche, get a good night’s rest and have a healthy breakfast. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready the morning of, and, if possible, read over the job-related material you’ve collected so that it’s fresh in your mind. Personally, I found having brief conversations with the people I’m closest to on my way in to my first day at Yabsta Digital’s Toronto office boosted my confidence and calmed my nerves.

Arrive ten to fifteen minutes before you are scheduled to begin; the extra time will ease punctuality-related worries. Put a genuine smile on your face, shake your colleagues’ hands and have an open mind. Put your all into everything you are assigned, and demonstrate your knowledge, efficiency and communication skills. Ask for clarification when necessary, and be warm, friendly and receptive. Follow this advice and your first day is guaranteed to go well.

Coming up is Part 3, which will discuss the role a university education plays in the work setting.

Image Credit: Hans Kristian Aas (Flickr)



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