Into The Void

The new office can seem daunting for those working in secretarial jobs – rather like stepping into the void. You’re shown to a desk, but there’s no stapler. You’re desperate for a drink, but no one has shown you where the coffee machine is. The ‘long termers’ look you up and down with an alarmingly well-practiced roll of the eyes...

It can feel as overwhelming as that first day at ‘big school’, especially if you’re temping. But, there are easy ways to step into a new office and your new secretarial job with dignity and poise.

1) Be prepared. Carrying an old fashioned pencil case full of office essentials means you can hit the ground running, without needing to find out who is the office stationary monitor.

2) Keep it personal. A few photos or pictures can quickly turn an anonymous desk into your space and give you a lift when the workload seems relentless.

3) If you’re clueless where the teabags are kept, and no one has been forthcoming, offer to make colleagues a drink. It’s a quick way to break the ice and gain familiarity with your new environment.

4) If you feel that talons are quietly being sharpened behind your back, pay the most obvious culprit a compliment. It only takes a moment and might just be a fast track method to side step office politics.

5) Enjoy your novelty value. There’s always an element of curiosity about newcomers – nurture this gently. Striking a balance between slight reservation whilst showing genuine interest in those around you, should ease the path towards less stilted conversations.

6) Go neutral. The first day in a new job as a secretary is not the best for a daringly short skirt, low cut top, or super loud tie and shirt combo. You needn’t dress to look so dowdy you’ll feel uncomfortable, but attention-grabbing clothes are rarely a good idea as a newbie.

7) Take your time. If you’re experienced in secretarial jobs you’ll know that every office has stock characters: the sleaze, the gossip, the creep etc. The first people who offer a hand of friendship might not be the ones that you’ll really want to share a sandwich with next month. It’s worth watching quietly and enjoying lunch alone for the first few days.

8) Smile. Even if you don’t feel like it, smiling releases endorphins that make you feel happier and send out a positive message to those around you. Obviously, don’t go overboard or you will look more demented than serene.

9) Don’t ever be afraid to say no. Work hard and be super efficient, but have confidence in your ability to fulfil your work commitments well, rather than letting the office layabout dump work that is beyond your remit.

10) At the end of your first week a packet of chocolate biscuits left by the kettle shouldn’t seem as though you’re trying too hard to impress, and could open up the invite for Friday drinks…

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