One of the most exciting moments in our lives is when we crack the interview on campus placement and bag that dream job. A job that's going to mark the beginning of our professional career. The real work starts on the first day at work. Where to start, what to do?

Every job, every organization has its unique traditions. Moreover, with high demands from new graduates, the pressure might just start mounting before you even realize it. You might feel overwhelmed with new material being thrown at you. Chances are that you would hear people around you complain about the company and your supervisor. Sometimes you'll ask people for help and they'll refuse, even though you know that they know the answers you need. You want to be successful, but you feel that you've landed in a foreign world!

In many ways, you've traveled to a new world. Here are some strategies that will help you move in the right direction:

1. Find a coach. The person should preferably be from outside your company who is willing to answer all your questions. Ask all your relatives if they know someone. Go back to your college professors and ask for names. Use all your resources to find someone who will be honest with you. Look for someone who is insightful and can guide you through sticky interpersonal problems when they come up.
2. Concentrate on learning your job. You're not expected to know all the answers. You are expected to know how to find them, though. Ask your boss and associates for suggestions regarding articles to read or web sites to visit. Read all you can about your job and your clients in the company's files.
3. You'll discover that some people find you threatening. After all, you're young, you're eager, and your knowledge is current. However, I'm sure there are people in your company who are more than willing to help you. There is usually a coworker who will help you with overwhelming tasks such as prioritizing your work.
4. Stay clear of the malcontents. Just about every organization has a few employees who are never satisfied with anything. They do their jobs but take every opportunity to snipe at a supervisor or take pot shots at company policies. They are always looking for recruits. If one of them tries to hook you with conversational curves such as, "What do you think of our supervisor," answer with something like, "I'm too new here to have formed any opinions." This is a tactful turn-off that lets the malcontent know you have no desire to become part of the group.
5. Be a loyalist. Instead of trashing the company, emphasize everything good you can find. You've committed to the company so you owe it a fair day's work as well as endorsement of their principles and objectives. If you are unhappy about something, discuss it in private with the appropriate person.
6. Be a cooperator. There are some employees who will avoid any work over and above what is in their job description, and there are others who willingly take on special projects, give other workers a hand and ask for work when they have completed their assignments. By being a cooperator, you not only help others, but you will also be helping yourself – not only in spirit, but in the eyes of your supervisors.

Above all, focus on being a sincere professional and you'll do just fine!