6 Tips To Deal With The Anxiety Of Starting A New Job

The transition from university to the working world can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing. The anxiety of starting a new job when starting your first graduate job can be daunting. But the good news is – there are several ways to manage these feelings. This blog post explores practical tips to help you cope with stress and the severe anxiety of starting a new job and thriving in your new graduate role.
We'll begin by considering why managing your stress and anxiety before starting a new job is essential. Then, we'll discuss the most effective ways to approach the situation – from simple self-care techniques to talking to a therapist. Finally, we'll provide general advice for creating a positive working environment.

1. Get organised

Starting a new job is an exciting yet nerve-wracking prospect. When you begin in a new role, you are often presented with a deluge of tasks and information, which can be overwhelming and create anxiety before starting a new job. This is why it's essential to be organised and create a to-do list, prioritising your tasks. With so much to take in, it can quickly feel like you're losing control. However, having a clear and concise list can help you feel in charge and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
In addition to creating a list, planning your workday the evening before can be highly beneficial. Doing this allows you to go through your tasks and schedule them according to priority. Having this written down can help you start the following day knowing exactly what you need to accomplish. This can prevent any last-minute panics, help you be more productive, and reduce the anxiety of starting a new job.

2. Take breaks

Taking breaks during the workday improves overall productivity and reduces the anxiety of starting a new job. Studies have shown that employees who take regular intervals are more focused, creative and energised. This is because when we work non-stop, our brains can become fatigued, negatively affecting our ability to concentrate and problem-solve. 
Taking breaks can come in many forms and can be tailored to individual preferences. For example, if you enjoy being outdoors, walking outside can offer a refreshing change in scenery and has been shown to improve mood and reduce anxiety of starting a new job. Alternatively, conversing with colleagues can provide social support and reduce feelings of isolation. 

3. Practice mindfulness

Recent studies have shown that mindfulness meditation is a powerful technique to reduce stress, anxiety before starting a new job, and depression. It involves being fully present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgement. It can be practised anywhere, anytime, and is not limited to a specific culture or religion. 

4. Communicate with your manager and colleagues

Establishing positive working relationships with your colleagues and management is critical to achieving success and enhancing overall job satisfaction. To do this, it's important to foster open lines of communication and convey any concerns you may have. You can develop trust and respect with your team members by communicating your thoughts and feelings clearly and professionally.
Furthermore, it's crucial to actively listen to your colleagues and understand their expectations, concerns, and objectives. This helps build a sense of collaboration and cooperation and ensures that everyone is working towards the same goals. Ultimately, having a strong rapport with your colleagues and manager can enhance your work experience and lead to greater productivity and better results for your organisation. By putting effort into building and maintaining positive relationships, you can cultivate a supportive, collaborative work environment that promotes success and fulfilment for everyone involved and reduce the severe anxiety of starting a new job.

5. Look after yourself

It's no secret that stress and anxiety have become commonplace in our fast-paced modern world. But unfortunately, these feelings can not only take a toll on our mental health but can also negatively affect our physical well-being. That's why making time for self-care practices and prioritising both aspects of our health is crucial.
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to manage stress and anxiety when starting a new job. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Additionally, regular exercise can improve our overall physical health and reduce our susceptibility to the stress and anxiety of starting a new job.

6. Get work experience with a professional internship

It's no secret that starting a new job can be overwhelming. That's why building your professional experience beforehand can help. A professional internship can allow you to practice your skills in a real-life setting, all while becoming comfortable around other colleagues. This experience can help you manage the stress of starting a new role and could even give you a head start. In addition, by learning the ropes beforehand, you'll be more prepared to handle challenges that arise. So if you're looking to ease into your professional role, consider getting an internship.

Starting your first graduate job can be stressful, but remember that it's normal to feel anxious. With practical steps, however, you can manage stress and anxiety effectively. Be organised, take breaks, practice mindfulness, build good relationships with your colleagues and manager and look after yourself. These simple yet powerful steps will ensure you settle into your new role and constructively cope with stress and severe anxiety of starting a new job.

Good luck!

If broadening your professional experience sounds appealing, Readygrad, our trusted partner, provides the key to acquiring the necessary skills to achieve your career objectives and help you transition from study to work. You can also read our blog on how to overcome social anxiety.