It’s natural to get first-day nerves when starting a new job, but having had a few new jobs in my life, I’ve learnt to channel those nerves into something positive. Plus, when you’re joining a team as great as PRG, there is no need to be nervous!
I love Mondays
If you’ve viewed my LinkedIn profile, then you’ll know that I love Mondays and hate being late. So, you won’t be surprised to read that I left home *extra early for my first day!
*Extra early included time to get fuel in the middle of a fuel crisis!
After a shorter than expected queue at the petrol station, I had half an hour before starting work. I took the opportunity to grab a coffee from the golden arches and then wandered back to PRG HQ.
My line manager, Kathryn, greeted me at the door and welcomed me in. We had a quick tour of the office and then headed upstairs for a warm welcome from Simon. After that, we headed downstairs for the weekly ‘Cuppa Meeting’. This is a Monday morning tradition at PRG where the team spends a few minutes catching up about the weekend. I’m a big fan of this. I think it’s a brilliant way to bring the team together, strengthen working bonds, and make us feel valued.
After a quick natter, the real work started. Simon and Kathryn gave me an overview of PRG and the clients I will be looking after. I was sat there trying to absorb as much information as possible and scribble notes as quickly as my hand would let me.
Questions = Learning
I started to make my way through the systems, emails, accounts, timesheets, shared drives, how to use the phone (I’m not ashamed to say that I needed a lesson in transferring calls!) and began reeling off the many questions I had.
If you’re new to PR or looking to get your first taste of the industry, then this is a great piece of advice. Even with 10 years of work under my belt, I still don’t know everything (even though sometimes I think I do). It’s ok to ask questions. Speak up if you don’t know the answer. Ask for advice if you’re not sure. It’s the best way to learn!
In the afternoon, I sat in on my first client Zoom call with Fire and Security specialists, Chubb. It’s an exciting time for Chubb as they are about to launch a new service. This Zoom call was the kick-off meeting for us to take the brief and then help them tell the world about it.
The remainder of the afternoon was spent researching, reading, and reviewing content. There was lots to take in (and still is!), but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love getting stuck in, having a go, and being challenged. Life would be boring if you didn’t step out of your comfort zone and embrace a new challenge once in a while!
Tuesday
Tuesday followed a similar pattern to Monday, with reading, researching, and introducing myself to trade journalists for another client, Goplasticpallets.com. Based in Eastbourne, Goplasticpallets.com is the UK’s leading provider of recycled and reusable plastic pallets. None of this bad single-use stuff, these guys do good for the environment.
In the afternoon, we headed out for a welcome lunch at Bill’s. It was an enjoyable hour of delicious food and entertaining team bonding.
The rest of the week flew by
Wednesday and Thursday seemed to fly by. I was getting stuck in with writing copy for social media and pulling together the comms proposal for Chubb’s new project. On Friday, I pieced together a photography brief, prepared some interview questions, and drafted this blog.
The day was rounded off with a well done from Simon and me slipping off a few minutes early to go and play golf! What a brilliant way to round off a brilliant week.
Exciting times ahead
The whole team have made me feel really welcome. I’m very grateful for the opportunity, and I’m looking forward to sharing my knowledge and skills, learning even more, and getting stuck in with all the exciting things we’ve got planned at PRG.
