The First 30 Days of First Jobbers in Corporate
Graduating was hard, but entering the workforce was a whole different level.
Now, as I settle into my third month as a Data Scientist at Kasikornbank, I’ve had time to reflect on the whirlwind that were my first 30 days. While I still have a long journey ahead — balancing work, trying to improve various skills, and preparing for my MBA — I’d like to share what I’ve learned so far, hoping it might help others who are just starting out.
The Transition from University to Work
As someone who has always loved learning, I thought I was prepared for the real world. But those first few weeks quickly showed me how different academic life is from the working environment. Every information was overwhelmed, deadlines were tighter, and expectations felt higher. I didn’t have the luxury of reviewing lecture notes or working at my own pace.
It’s okay to not have all the answers right away. One thing that helped me adjust was asking questions, even if they seemed basic. I realized early on that everyone in the team wants to help me succeed, and no one expects you to know everything from day one.
Building a Routine to Keep Up
Adapting to a 9-to-5 schedule was a challenge, especially since I’m also preparing for my GMAT in my spare time. Between work and study, I had to quickly figure out a routine that allowed me to be productive at the office while making time to study. I started scheduling my days to balance both. I prioritized my tasks at work and blocked off time in the evening to review for GMAT. Having a routine helped me stay focused without feeling overwhelmed by the workload. It’s all about finding that balance.
Fitting into the Corporate Culture
Every workplace has its own culture, and Kasikornbank is no different. The way people communicate, the office hierarchy, and even how meetings are conducted were all new to me. I spent the first few weeks just observing and absorbing everything around me, trying to understand where I fit in. I found that being approachable and genuine helped me form good relationships with my colleagues. Instead of trying to fit in immediately, I focused on learning the ropes and letting connections happen naturally. My team was incredibly welcoming, which made the adjustment smoother.
Facing the Learning Curve
I won’t lie — there were moments when I felt completely out of my depth. As a data scientist, the learning curve was steep. I had to get up to speed with new tools, technologies, and industry-specific knowledge. But I’ve learned that the first 30 days aren’t about mastering everything; they’re about laying the groundwork.
Building Relationships
As a first jobber, I quickly realized the importance of building relationships with colleagues. Networking wasn’t something I thought about much in school, but in the workplace, it’s essential. The people you work with can be a source of support, advice, and even friendship. I made an effort to engage with people outside my immediate team, whether it was joining group lunches or casual conversations during coffee breaks. This has not only helped me feel more connected but has also opened doors for collaboration across departments.
Embracing Humility and Growth
I’ve learned that humility is key to personal and professional growth. In my first 30 days, I faced situations that made me question my abilities, but I realized that everyone has their own learning curve. What matters is the willingness to learn, adapt, and improve. I believe that stay humble, stay curious is the key. I’ve made mistakes, but each one has taught me something valuable. As I continue to grow in my role, I remind myself that every challenge is an opportunity to learn.
In Conclusion
The first 30 days of a job are challenging, but they’re also the most critical in setting the foundation for your career. Reflecting on my first two months, I see how far I’ve come, but I also know there’s still so much more to learn. If I could offer one piece of advice to fellow first jobbers, it would be
Be patient with yourself, stay open to learning, and remember that growth takes time.
That’s all from me, and I’d love to hear from you! What were your experiences during the first 30 days of your first job? Whether you’re just starting out or have been through it already, feel free to share your thoughts, advice, or questions in the comments. Let’s keep the conversation going and help each other navigate this journey together.
