Information » Employment & Training » Starting work
Starting a new job can be an exciting experience and can seem a little scary at first, as being an employee is different from being a student. You’ll meet new people, learn new skills and get earn money for the work you carry out.
You will have a role and job to fulfill and certain things will be expected from you in a work place, being on time, following instructions and showing that you are reliable and dependable.
You might find that your working life is more structured than what you are normally used to. You might have to report to someone like a manger or a supervisor and they will give you instructions, or ask you to perform certain tasks, sometimes within a certain time period. You will also find you have to account for your actions and decisions, such as why you performed a task in a certain way. Many workplaces will expect you to show initiative - to do things without being asked or supervised.
It can take time to get used to your new working environment, some people will adapt quicker than others. It helps to ask questions if you’re not sure about something and a good idea to make an effort to get to know your new work colleagues.
Try to be friendly and helpful in the workplace but equally don’t let people take advantage of you because you are young and new to the job. If you do experience problems in the workplace like bullying or discrimination don’t be afraid to get help. Speak to your supervisor or manager or find out who you can talk to in the Human Resources or Personnel department if they have one, as there may be a complaints procedure. There are also Trade Unions that you can join for a small regular contribution from your wages that protect workers and are there to help or you could go to the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) for free advice on what you should do.
Organisations
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Citizens Advice
The Citizens Advice service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free, independent and confidential advice, and by influencing policymakers. Welsh here. ...The Citizens Advice service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free, independent and confidential advice, and by influencing policymakers.
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The site - Discrimination at work
If you feel you're being treated unfairly at work, there may be a law to protect you. Read on to find out about your rights, and what you can do about discrimination in the workplace.
