1. Be quiet and listen
If you're trying to gain knowledge, which you are, it is probably best that you don't attempt to look like the smartest person in the room. You're new soak it in, you currently have a front row seat to view how that particular organization works don't run your mouth so much that you miss the show.
2. Do not isolate yourself with people who are like you
I know we did it in college even though we claimed that we were diversifying ourselves *queue dramatic music* but we didn't (shocked face) and it wasn't wrong, we just like people that we share common interests with. However, make your rounds, communicate with someone older/younger, sit with a different group everyday at lunch for a week.
3. Your personal life IS separate from your professional life
I know sharing personal information is a part of bonding (I majored in Communication) but not at work. They should not know about your 'shamtastic' roommate, your crazy ex, or your weekend outings. It's so tempting but you're still new and you don't know these people. Be safe and do not disclose personal information unless it directly affects your job.
4. Do what you said that you would do
If you take on a project and agree to have it done by the close of business then you better make sure it's done by the close of business. It shows that you are reliable and consistent. You get the job done and that's what employers want to see.
5. Ask for help and take notes
It's okay to ask for help but if you do please make sure to take notes. At my job we get interns who ask the same question everyday because they did not take notes (either mentally or physically)....that's bad. It makes you look incompetent but only when you ask the SAME question repeatedly.
6. You're gonna make mistakes
Now learn the lesson and get over it. The only time mistakes become a problem is when there is no lesson learned. If no lesson is learned then chances are the mistake is going to be repeated and you are going to come off as problematic.7. Stand your ground
This is when your coworkers are developing their opinions of you. So if you know (not assume) that someone is belittling you or disrespecting you it's probably best to comfort them calmly. If you falter when this happens that person and anyone else viewing the situation (and people are watching) will view you as weak. Don't let that become a characteristic that you have to reverse. Workplace bullying or hazing happens and it will probably happen to you but don't let that scare you off into a corner.
8. Everyone is just as nervous as you
Yes, you're new and everyone else has been there for however long and they may know more about the company but you represent something scary and that is change. You're new, you have new ideas, you think outside of the box that they have grown accustomed to thinking in, and you are in their minds the future of the workforce. You may feel inexperienced but that inexperience allows you to think more freely and find innovative solutions that they can not see. Your lack of experience is the cause of anxiety for everyone involved.
9. This is a job and not a picnic.
You did not enter the workforce to make friends, it is one of the many upsides as you'll see later in your career but for those that are just starting out please do not make this your main goal. If you're worried about making friends join a club or some sort of social group. You'll make friends later but for now you're there to work.
10. Thank those that help you.
Remember that with the help of those people your struggle to find your footing could have been a lot worse. A little gratitude goes a long way. When people feel appreciated they are more likely to help you out again.
Don't get me wrong, your first day and many others after that will still be filled with anxiety but hopefully these tips will ease that anxiety a tad bit. It is scary beginning your career or even a new job but now you have guidelines on how to conduct yourself. You can't control what happens but at least you can adapt. Get out there, walk in the confidence, learn something, but for right now get some rest. You have a big day ahead of you. 