Hi Anonymous,

I empathize with your worries as I too have felt similar feelings of anxiety before starting a new role. As your question is quite personal and broad, I think private, one-on-one coaching would actually be the most effective support for you. That being said, I have provided a few brief, but useful, tips below:

1) Focus on the fact that they hired you for a reason! They believe in you, so you must have more talent than you think

2) Remember that no one wants you to fail - your new firm is on your side

3) Rather than view any perceived shortcomings as concerns, reframe them as gaps for development - and, rather, build anticipation for how much you will learn

4) Don't discount the skills and experience developed during your PhD. Apply the same work ethic, professionalism and interpersonal skills that have gotten you this far

5) Practice clear and concise structuring of your thoughts; practice clear and concise communication of these thoughts

6) Establish your own approach to organising and prioritising your tasks and to-dos (spreadsheets, Trello boards, etc.)

7) Try to relax! Stressing about each action or conversatiom will lead to greater doubt and anxiety, distracting you from doing a great job in your new role

Really hope this helps - feel free to send me a message if you have any questions or you want to chat further.

Jessica

(edited)