Arrive early – this is always the one thing everyone says, “Duh…I know that”, yet few take advantage of those precious early moments. The EmploymentCrossing.com founder says it’s a good way to get in, get some of the awkward introductions out of the way while also taking a look around and locating those mundane things such as the copier and supply cabinet.

Don’t voice your opinions too loudly – especially if they go against the current dynamics in the office, says Barnes. You want to make an impression, but stepping on toes will only ensure the wrong one’s left on your new co-workers. Of course, says A. Harrison Barnes, if you’re asked for feedback or suggestions, you should offer up any ideas you have. That’s part of the upside of a new employee: they approach old problems with new eyes.

About Us – You can learn a wealth about a company, its mission and its values simply by visiting the website’s “About Us” page. This is a good way to sort of fall into those same principles and, though it doesn’t happen often, it’s also way to ensure you’ve chosen the right position. Odds are you’ll never disagree with a company’s goals, but there have been times when a new hire has rescinded his job acceptance after realizing his values and the company’s didn’t match.

Be Kind, Ask for Help – By introducing yourself to someone in the company breakroom and then asking a question, you’re basically saying, “I’m new here and you look like the kind of person who can help me help myself”. It’s human nature to want to be helpful to our fellow humans. Even if it sounds corny, there’s truth in it. Be sincere – but don’t shy away from the opportunity, either.

Listen – Sometimes, the most revealing facts reveal themselves when you’re doing nothing but paying attention to what’s being said to you and around you. While you likely care less about the boss’s divorce, it is good to know, if for no other reason than to explain why he looks as though he’s lost ten pounds since your initial interview. Remember, too, that gossip is never a healthy habit. While you might not can help overhearing the occasional tid bit of dirt on the receptionist, it doesn’t mean you have to contribute.

Before long, that first day will be behind you and you’ll know the intricacies as well as anyone else. Until then, take a deep breath and jump into this new career that you’ve chosen.

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For many, they began their careers with one company and progressed up that same company’s ladder the entirety of their career. They did so with a mutual sense of loyalty – the employer, fully aware of a good worker when they had it and an employee who took pride in a job well done. Those days are a thing of the past, though. Today, a college graduate is apt to change jobs four times, and possibly more, over the course of his working years. There are many factors that go into this new career mindset, including outsourcing, downsizing and of course, the rapidly advancing technology.

The best way to deal with a lack of job security is to be prepared. A proactive approach is always better than one of a reactive nature. Not only that, says the EmploymentCrossing.com founder, but when you feel prepared, you’re less likely to stress. Your goal is to cover the bases as much as you can and then knowing when you’ve reached the place where it’s out of your hands. This means staying current with the latest technology, focusing on your financial cushion – which is the three months of your current salary put aside for the unexpected, says A. Harrison Barnes, and keeping your resume polished and ready to kick into action should the need arise.

Believe it or not, staying healthy plays a big roll in keeping your stress levels in check. Exercise, as we know, is the cure-all for many of life’s ailments. A positive attitude helps, too, says Barnes. Crazy as it sounds, sometimes the best approach is the one that requires the least amount of hoopla. In the case of dealing with the lack of job security, you might be surprised at how well you cope if you make up your mind that you’re doing the best you can with what you’ve got. If you do fall victim to the dreaded layoff list, knowing it means something better is out there can sometimes be the right motivator that helps you move forward – even when you want to hold the sofa down and catch every episode the Law & Order marathon while playing the ‘woe is me’ role. Nothing’s forever – including recessions, unemployment and yes – even those Law & Order marathons (trust us – you’ll have plenty of opportunities to watch all those reruns after you’ve secured your new job).

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