How-To

Surviving Your First Full-Time Job

In December 2020, I got my Real Estate Licence. In January 2021, I started my first full-time job at a Real Estate Brokerage in Oakville, Ontario.

Confession - When I got home from my first day at work, I broke down in tears. I told my mom that the nine-to-five grind wasn’t for me and that if this was what the future looked like, I wanted no part in it.

Thankfully, after a couple weeks I finally got the hang of things and decided that working in the “real world” (as I like to call it) wasn’t all that bad.

Here are some things I wish I knew before I started.

Invest in the right clothes

In order to act the part, you need to look the part.

You will need a lot of clothes, and not just any clothes but professional clothes. Clothes impact not only how you see yourself, but how others see you too. I know this may sound obvious, but first impressions are everything! According to Forbes, people will make a decision about you within the first 7 seconds of meeting you.

Chances are, if you are confident in how you look, this will translate to your performance as well. Don’t believe me? A study in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that those who wear formal business attire feel more powerful and in control.

This is one of my favourite blazers. I also happened to have purchased it at Value Village- you don't need to break the bank to invest in your wardrobe!

Get outside!

For both your mental and physical health.

Sitting at a desk all day can feel really draining. Prioritize getting fresh air when you can. Whether that’s enjoying your morning coffee outside, lunchtime walks, or an evening run. Fresh air can help eliminate fatigue, improve your concentration, fight anxiety and so much more!

Learn more here!

Wake up early

Mornings are for YOU!

It is so easy for the day to get away from you and by the time its 8pm you’ve barely checked off your to-do list. By waking up early, you can have an extra hour (or two) without any distractions. Some of my favourite morning activities are going for walks/runs, reading, meditating, and journaling! Develop a morning routine you love, and your day will immediately be off to a happier, more productive start.

Learn the lunchtime etiquette

and what works for you.

Lunchtime can be an overwhelming time. Do you bring your own food? Do you eat at your desk? How much time do you get? Each office has a slightly different dynamic. Take the first couple weeks to learn the lunchtime etiquette and then figure out what works for you. If everyone eats out every day but you can’t afford it, don’t stress! Prioritize your needs and find a happy medium. Lunchtime can and should be fun.

And remember, you can always ask. If you are afraid to ask your boss, your colleagues are your greatest resource and can give you great insight.

Ultimately, it is about finding balance and developing routines that work for you. So, save your tears and kick butt at your new job!!

*All pictures taken by me*

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