Starting your first speech pathology job is a significant milestone. You have worked hard to qualify as a speech pathologist. You are ready to start impacting people’s lives by helping them communicate. A smooth transition from student to speech pathologist needs preparation.
Recent speech pathology graduate, Rachael Becke, shares her top 5 tips so that others may benefit from her experience.
Tip 1: Sleep
When you start a new job, there’s a lot to learn. You’re learning about the company, the culture, your coworkers, and the work itself. It can be a lot to take in, and you might feel like you’re constantly trying to catch up. That’s why it’s important to get enough sleep. Sleep helps your brain process and store new information, so you’ll be able to retain what you’ve learned and perform at your best. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try to get an extra hour or two of sleep each night. Your body and mind will thank you for it!
Make sure you get your sleep cycle adjusted before you are due to start work! Starting a new job can be an exhausting transition already without starting the day tired!
Tip 2: Plan Your Travel from home to work
When preparing for your first day of work, there are a lot of things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you need to consider the best way to get to work. If you live in an area with heavy morning rush hour traffic, it’s important to time your journey well so that you aren’t stuck in traffic on your way to work. Additionally, plan where to park your car when you arrive at work. This can be especially challenging if you don’t have somewhere close by that is both convenient and affordable.
However, perhaps the most important thing to do in order to prepare for your first day is to manage your stress levels. Many people experience cortisol spikes in the morning as they get ready for their first day/ This leads to feelings of anxiousness or overwhelm. You can find ways to reduce cortisol levels before heading out the door. Try spending time outdoors or meditating. This helps you focus on the task ahead feeling relaxed and ready. So take your time preparing for your first day of work. Stay calm throughout the process! You’ve got this.
Tip 3: Prep your lunches
Meal prepping is a great way to save time and make sure you’re eating healthy. I like to do it at the beginning of the week, or the night before. That way, I have time to do other things in the morning and get to work on time. And I don’t have to worry about making healthy choices to keep up my energy by doing this!
Whether it is a healthy breakfast smoothie or a quinoa salad , prepping at the start of the week means it is one less decision to make in the morning.
Meal prepping has helped me save money, eat healthier, and reduce stress. I highly recommend it! Try it out and see if it works for you. Who knows, you might just end up loving it as much as I do.
Tip 4: Read everything
Starting your first speech pathology job means lots of paperwork. From joining Speech Pathology Australia, getting a Medicare Provider Number, NDIS worker modules and more!
At TalkHQ, I received a pre-starter welcome pack. There was a lot of information to take in. Things likespecific requirements for dress code, hours of work, and company procedures. But don’t worry – all this information helps create a smoother journey.
In addition to the official documentation, ask questions about what it takes to excel in your new team environment. Learn about establishing good communication with your colleagues. I’m lucky at TalkHQ as the team is so supportive. They understand we all need to support each other and share knowledge as we tackle our new role. Utilizing effective time management skills will also allow us all to work efficiently and keep meeting deadlines.
Overall, I read the documentation and felt prepared and excited for what lied ahead at the office. With the guidance, support, and expertise at TalkHQ, I knew that I would thrive in my new role!
Tip 5: Self-care
Starting your first speech pathology job, feeling a bit overwhelmed and uncertain about your path is normal. Self-care is an important part of this journey.
Sometimes, finding what works for you can also feel like a challenge.
Maybe it’s reading a good book, writing in your journal, cooking up a delicious meal, or going for a run. What’s important is that you make time to care for yourself every day.
Remember not to be too hard on yourself. You are blazing a trail in an exciting new career and are not expected to know everything right away. Take a deep breath and enjoy the ride!
After all, self-care is as unique as each individual person – so just find what works for you. Listen to your body and mind. Keep giving your best self the love and care that she deserves. You got this!
