It’s exciting when a company decides to take a chance on you and hire you for one of its entry-level jobs, but, trust us, whether you’re young or just inexperienced and starting a new career, starting such a gig isn’t the most entertaining thing. Just when you think this is your time to shine, instead, you find small tasks taking up most of your day, leaving you bored and unsatisfied.
Don’t get us wrong, even having a job is better than the alternative, but that doesn’t mean that you enjoy getting out of bed and heading into the office every day. In fact, entry-level jobs often lead people to questioning their career decisions, which can lead to lack of motivation or enthusiasm about getting work done.
For those who might be in an entry-level jobs slump that you just can’t shake, we’ve got some fast fixes to keep you present, alert and excited about going to work each day.
Time Your Day By Tasks
Having a list of things to do is great, but you can elevate the organization by blocking out hours of the day for different tasks. Giving yourself time restraints will keep you on track and motivated to keep moving forward with your workload. Bonus points if your efficiency leaves you with extra time on your hands before it’s time to go home so you can get a head start on other things.
Have Snacks At Your Desk
The office might supply a banquet of snacks for you to graze, but there’s something to be said about having a private stash of carefully curated snacks to comfort you during an especially unbearable day. Not only will these help you satisfy your little hunger strikes, but, assuming they’re shareable, you’ll have more coworkers stopping by your desk, which only increases communication and builds relationships. Just make sure these snacks are healthier than candy or other things that are full of sugar.
Entry-Level Jobs Are Perfect For Finding An Office Mentor
There’s nothing better than knowing there is someone at work you honestly feel has your best interests in mind. Having a more seasoned friend you can grab coffee with, G-chat with and hang with at work events isn’t just a welcome distraction, but a motivator to stay on point with your work. Someone who is ready, willing and able to hold you accountable for your work performance is one of the best ways to get to the head of the promotion line. You may be towards the bottom of the totem pole at work now, but finding mentors to help you rise up the ranks will help you realize there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.
Once A Week, Get Up An Hour Earlier Than Normal
Work slumps are demotivating, and it’s easy for that sluggish energy to follow you everywhere. It may feel impossible to drag yourself out of bed in the morning, but starting your day an hour earlier once a week can make a world of difference when it comes to getting little things done that you never seem to have time for. It relieves the stress of feeling rushed, and you might just find yourself setting the alarm earlier more often.
Dress Up A Little Bit
These days, offices are super casual and it’s not uncommon to see a lot of denim and t-shirts in the lunch room. This is fine if you’re content with where you’re at, but, if you’re looking to step things up and find office bliss, start dressing like you’re 100 percent in the game. Swear off jeans for a week and try nothing but business casual. You’ll be noticed by upper management, and the role you dress for is the role you’ll land when you’re up for review. Dress for success, look good, feel good and go do good work.
Find A Fix For What You Don’t Like
If you don’t address what’s really bothering you, it’s not likely to get any better. Whatever it is that’s grating you day-to-day, think about a solution instead of another compliant. If it’s a tedious task, like filling out an analytics spread sheet, get it done in timed, five-minute increments throughout the day. Your desk sucks? Ask the office manager if there are any open workstations you can move to. Whatever the reason, put on your best adult face and figure it out so you can move on to bigger and better things.
Lead image via Getty