Starting new job, very anxious

[44Max44]

So I go in for my first shift at my new job today and I'm really anxious about it. It's not my first time working at a job, by at my other jobs I had friends working there that could show me the ropes so I felt a lot less anxious.
Without going into too much detail, I applied for a job where I thought would involve me being at the store after hours and not having to interact with customers, but after getting to the interview and being offered the job I was told that I'd actually have to be in the store during working hours when customers are there. I don't have to directly interact with them but there is a possibility that one comes up to me and asks a question.

The one thing I'm thankful for is that I get to wear whatever clothes I like to the job so to everyone else in the store I'd just look like a regular customer and not an employee which should cut down the interactions a lot.

I'm anxious because I'm very introverted and don't like interacting with people and I'm worried I'll mess something up in the job or maybe get a complaint because of lack of communication skills or something. I don't know.

Does anyone have any tips for starting at new workplaces? Any advice is appreciated.

Thank you

[TheWookie]

Firstly let me say congratulations on the new job! Being able to work with an anxiety disorder is a show of strength. Be proud man.

While I have no insights into starting work at a new job, I do have a thought for you... would it be possible to rehearse/practice suitable responses if you do get approached? Something along the lines of “I am not sure, there is a staff member located (insert applicable location) who can help you.” Maybe?

[Gabs_]

Congrats on the new job. You should be proud of yourself.

I find that no matter what the job, or when in my life, I always feel nervous and overwhelmed at the start - you are going into unknown territory, so it's reasonable to be nervous or anxious. However, like most things when we do them more and more, you begin to feel a bit more relaxed and I am sure within a few weeks the confidence will come. I always find that the first day is like "THE FIRST DAY" and then a few weeks later, I'm walking in and I feel like part of the furniture.

Remember that uncomfortable is growth - so you should feel proud to be outside your comfort zone. And please remember, you are not alone in feeling the way you do.

In relation to the customers and dealing with them, I always say "treat someone how you would like to be treated". So, try and wear a smile, point them to another staff member who can assist them and wish them a lovely day.

I believe in you!

[missep123]

Congratulations on the job 44Max44 but I am sorry to hear that it was very anxiety-provoking!

How has the job been recently?

We are here for you!