When I started a new job I remember feeling so anxious about so many things. Am i dressed right? Will I make new friends? Will I make enough money? Should I wear my hair straight or natural? Can they tell if I’m gay or straight? and the list goes on and on.

Starting a new job can be stressful enough whether you’re in a new city, a new building, or even just a new department. Its just like starting a new relationship with a super formal interview. So just like a relationship, you want to follow a few rules just to get you through the rough stages of the first few days on the job.

1. Dress comfortably!
Of course I don’t mean jeans and a t shirt but the last thing you want to do is have on the same 6-inch heels from the club at the office. When starting something new you have no idea what you’ll be doing so be fashionable without hurting your feet…or your pockets.

2. Be EARLY!
I know I know I should practice what I preach but oh well. If your on time you are late, everyone knows this and if they dont they should. Planning to be 15 minutes early is good, but during your first week strive to be 30 minutes ahead of your schedule. It’ll make it easier to start the habit and you’ll have extra time in the morning to eat or accessorize…whichever you prefer lol

3. Order Lunch
I hate to condone wasting money but during the first week you don;t even know where the microwave is. The last thing you want to do is bring in your salad to find out there is no refrigerator. Until you know whats what at work, pay for the food, at the very least you may be out a few bucks but you’ll be full

4. Mingle
There is nothing more important than work relationships! You need to find the usefull folk in the office. You know the gossip, the over achiever, the know it all, the one who can cover your shift when your late or ditching, and the one who wants your job. First impressions are everything, and you’d hate to miss out on making that best friend/co worker connection.

5. Don’t Tell them Anything! Too Much!
Just like you want the dirt on them, they are dying for the dirt on you. Don’t be surprised of they’ve already looked you up on fb and twitter and every other social networking site. They may already know your gay, naturally curly and what you ate last night for dinner. Its important to keep them guessing, after all no one wants the boss in all their business…