A New Job

So I've finally received a new job! Bye bye retail...Hello career world!

I was so nervous and excited once I got confirmation that the manager I met with wanted to hire me. I spent hours scouring the internet for tips and tricks to getting/adjusting to a new job, what to say or don't say, wear or don't wear, and so on. I asked multiple friends, colleagues and coworkers advice on starting a new job. I want to succeed and do the best I can.

My first week was purely training, and I think at this point I'm settling in well. Everyone I've encountered thus far in the company has been really nice, everyone seems to get along well. It appears to be a great work environment, with just the right balance of fun and work. They also did their own 'Harlem Shake' video during my first week there...which you can watch here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSWbgoPy53Y

I'm currently in my third week at Positive Promotions, which is a company that creates products for marketing/promotional/recognition purposes. Customers can have imprints of images and/or text on any product to help in the display of whatever company or organization they're representing.

I am the new proofreader! So hooray for my English degree being put to work! Now, it's not publishing or media, so I'm not proofing/editing manuscripts or news stories, but it's a start. It's a step in the right direction. I'm looking forward to succeeding and establishing myself here, and gaining as much experience and knowledge as I can. I really like my new job so far, and there is room for growth, which is always a good thing. Maybe in a few years I can try and get into the type of proofreading I want to do (assuming the publishing industry still exists. oh please please do). And hopefully by the time I'm in my 30's, I'll be an editor.




I'm thinking of also promoting myself as a proofreader more. Gain some freelance experience. Maybe get a website going, or at the very least advertise on Craigslist or Facebook. Back in January/February I proofread/lightly edited a novel that a former coworker wrote and I'm constantly proofreading my boyfriend's papers and other assignments while he's still in school. When I was still in school, I often helped other classmates and proofread their work. When I had my internship at Epiphany Magazine, my editor told me I have a natural eye for proofreading. On my own will, I've also read a few different books regarding proofreading and editing to help refresh and enhance my skills. I read a lot in general, so I'm confident in my abilities to proof/edit.

But, we shall see....in the meantime, I'm both really happy and relieved that I have a job where I can utilize my degree. It really does pay off to just keep plugging away, just keep sending resumes out and trying to make contacts. It takes time, a lot of time, but if you don't give up, something will come your way. Someone will give you a chance. Eventually.