Starting a new job is exciting and scary all at the same time. Whether you have been in the field for 10 weeks or 10 years, it will always be exhilarating to walk through the doors on your first day at a new office.
We caught up with two Bogdan’s (junior, Draghici (BD) and senior, Musteata(BM) to reflect on their first 30 days at QUALITANCE and what they learned during those pivotal first weeks. These two Bogdan’s have a mentor/pupil dynamic which they relate to Yoda and Luke Skywalker. Let’s see what they had to say about thriving at QUALITANCE, learning new things and surviving game night.
First Day Recollections
BM: I started out as a freelancer in April of 2014 and started full-time the first week of June 2014. One thing I remember most is how incredibly helpful everyone was! No one seemed annoyed by my new-ness. The one thing I will never forget about my first day was the size of my laptop. It was HUGE. Think 18.4 inch display… Eventually I switched to a slimmer, less conspicuous one but I will never forget the spectacle of my first laptop!
BD: I started working here at the end of this past April and am still considered a newbie. My first day is still pretty fresh in my mind and I too was impressed with how pleasant and helpful everybody was. I also remember feeling very comfortable in the office. I also have the most comfortable chair ever. On my first day I always like to chat people up and make friends. I noticed how much we all have in common and you can always find someone who loves to talk about gaming, literature or comedy!
Handling Awkward Moments
BD: When I began working at QUALITANCE, all of the doors seemed to open in the opposite direction of that which I would assume. I have many fond memories of not being able to get in and out of rooms!
BM: Shortly after I started, I took part in the office Thursday night beer gathering. We played charades and I could not act out my word for the life of me! I can’t remember what the word was… I am pretty sure I have blocked it from my memory.
Overcoming Challenges
BM: Oh man! I was so afraid that they wouldn’t like my UI/UX design! It’s kind of like being an artist or a writer and unveiling your work for the first time. It’s really intense! Also, during my first 30 days, my team was on a very tight deadline. I was worried the whole time that we would not get it done, but we did. That’s when I realized how strong a good team can really be.
BD: I think what was most challenging for me during my first month was working on tasks and programs that I had little experience with. I learned that sometimes you just have to throw yourself into something and learn as you go. I definitely learned much faster as a result!
Bogdan + Bogdan’s QUALITANCE Survival Guide: Your First 30 Days
- The doors open in a weird way. Plan accordingly.
- Don’t be afraid to dive in and try something new. You will learn a lot about yourself in the process.
- Learn to be a team player. Be ready to collaborate and support a diverse and talented team.
- Get to know people! We all spend a lot of time at work and it’s so much more interesting when you feel like you’re working with friends. Afraid of what to talk about? Pull up a funny YouTube video or debate the merits of the latest video game. You’re bound to find someone who likes to talk about one of these things!
- Ask questions. Seriously, don’t be shy! When you ask questions you will catch on much faster and feel more engaged with your work.
- Learn about your colleagues and their jobs. There is so much opportunity at QUALITANCE and it will benefit you to see what’s available and gauge the kinds of projects you want to be working on.
- Have fun! You’re more productive when you are having fun and enjoying your work!
Preparing for the Future
BD: The first 30 days helped me get out of my comfort zone and built my confidence to collaborate on new projects. I don’t think that I would have been successful if I hadn’t have been open and willing to try new things (even if I wasn’t an expert at them yet).
BM: QUALITANCE implements a ‘blitz’ way of delivering high quality products. Learning how to excel in an innovative and fast-paced environment has allowed me to grow in ways I never could have imagined. Who knew that I would eventually end up playing Yoda to a young Luke Skywalker? Trust me, the possibilities are endless.
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