My First Days on the Job

Sunday, June 8. Workday eve.

It’s the eve of my first day of work. My outfit is laid out, including my summertime slingbacks. I’ve read the first of my orientation materials, rounded up the necessary documents and planned out my commute. I imagined being more nervous. But, I’m going back to where I interned last summer. So, I’m already a little ahead of the game.

Monday, June 9. The first day, accompanied by a complementary heat wave.

I got on the wrong bus. But, I wasn’t too far off. I ended up with an unexpected speed walking session. Thanks to the intense D.C. summer heat, it took me the first hour of orientation to cool off. Only 58 minutes after my photo was taken and distributed in a bulk e-mail to the whole office.

A review of company policies, a Peruvian lunch and my first RFP filled up my afternoon.

Tuesday, June 10: The conference call.

I got on the right bus, but got off one stop too early. Practice makes perfect, right?

I arrived early for my first conference call as a full-time hire. I was the designated note taker. I sat anxiously in the room alone for a few minutes. I was dreading someone coming on the line before there was another person in the room with me. This morning, luck was on my side.

Working for a global company, I understand the necessity of conference calling. Especially working with a mix of generations and cultures, communicating strictly via e-mail could be problematic. Although in some cases conference calling can be unproductive (as can any meeting), there are ways to maximize  productivity.

Even though I’ve been part of conference calls, there’s added pressure in my new position. I need to summon the courage to contribute meaningfully. Plus, I’m still not sure of the conference call etiquette.

I imagine there’s much more of the same ahead of, and many more unexpected things as well. I bet next week I’ll have the bus all figured out…

Rachel