Starting a new career can be a big, exciting step forward in your life. But it can also be overwhelming, especially if you haven’t been in the workforce for very long. The good news is, you’re not alone. Many of us have been in your shoes and can relate to the feelings of uncertainty and excitement that come with starting a new chapter in your professional life. That’s why APSG is here to support our candidates, and share some tips that can help make your transition into a new career a little smoother.
It’s important to remember that starting a new career is not just about getting a job, it’s about building a future for yourself. It’s about finding the right fit for your skills, values, and goals. With the right guidance and support, you can turn this exciting time into a fulfilling and rewarding experience. So, let’s dive in and see what we can do to help you navigate your career from the very beginning.
1. Be open-minded and willing to learn.
When you’re just starting out in a new career, it’s important to be open-minded and willing to learn. You may not have all the answers, but that’s okay. The key is to be receptive to new information and be willing to learn from others. This could be through formal training or just picking up tips and tricks from your colleagues. The more you learn, the more valuable you will become to your employer and the more valuable your experience will be to your future career.
2. Work hard, even if you’re not sure about the role.
It can be daunting to take on a new role, especially if you’re not sure if it’s the right fit for you. However, it’s important to remember that even if you don’t stay in the role for a long time, you will still gain valuable experience that you can bring into your next role. For example, you may learn new skills in project management, team leadership, or communication that will be valuable in future roles. Additionally, by putting in the effort and working hard in your current role, you will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a dedicated and hardworking professional.
3. Build a network of support.
Having the right people supporting you during this time is essential. This could be friends, family, or colleagues who can offer advice and support. But it’s also important to have the right professional support. That’s where a recruitment agency like APSG comes in. Brisbane’s newest recruitment agency, APSG, was started to provide exceptional support to candidates, ensuring their clients are met with strong commercially-minded talent who can support their business growth needs. By working with APSG, you will have access to a team of experienced professionals who can help guide you through the job search process and offer advice on how to navigate your new career.
4. Take advantage of opportunities.
When you’re just starting out in a new career, it’s important to take advantage of opportunities that come your way. This could be an opportunity to attend a training course, work on a special project, or network with colleagues. By taking advantage of these opportunities, you will not only gain valuable experience, but you will also demonstrate to your employer that you are committed to your new career.
5. Set achievable goals.
It’s important to have a clear direction and to set achievable goals for your new career. This could be a short-term goal, such as learning a new skill, or a long-term goal, such as becoming a manager. By setting these goals, you will have something to work towards and will be able to measure your progress. It’s also a good idea to regularly review your goals and make changes if necessary to ensure that they remain relevant and achievable. Having a clear plan for your future can help you stay focused and motivated and give you a sense of purpose in your new career.
6. Seek feedback and ask for help.
It’s important to seek feedback from your colleagues and superiors to see how you’re doing in your new role. This can help you identify areas for improvement and give you a sense of what you’re doing well. Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Your colleagues and superiors are there to support you and asking for help demonstrates that you’re willing to learn and grow in your new role.
7. Be flexible and adaptable.
Starting a new career can be unpredictable, and it’s important to be flexible and adaptable. This could mean taking on new responsibilities or changing your approach if things aren’t working out. By being flexible and adaptable, you will be able to navigate the challenges that come with starting a new career and be better equipped to handle any changes that come your way.
8. Remember to take care of yourself.
Starting a new career can be stressful and it’s important to take care of yourself during this time. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking time to do things you enjoy. It’s also a good idea to exercise regularly, as this can help reduce stress and improve your overall health. Taking care of yourself will help you perform better in your new role and ensure that you’re in the best possible shape to navigate the challenges that come with starting a new career.
Starting off in the workforce can be a big and exciting step forward in your life, but it can also be overwhelming. By following these tips, you can make the transition into your new role a little smoother. Remember to be open-minded and willing to learn, work hard even if you’re not sure about the role, build a network of support, take advantage of opportunities, set achievable goals, seek feedback, be flexible and adaptable, and remember to take care of yourself. APSG is here to help you with this process and you can be confident that you have the right people by your side to help you navigate your new career.

THE AUTHOR
Brigid Hanson
Business Manager – Australian Project Solutions Group