I began to get serious about my job search three months before my graduation in December. LinkedIn, Indeed, and various PR job boards became my daily favorites. After class and work, I would mute my TV (well sometimes) and get to work on cover letters and applications.

Soon I had it down to a science : ways to easily personalize my cover letter for each résumé I sent to potential employers, references, and a document with answers to traditional questions — ready to copy & paste into applications.

This month, after multiple interviews, I accepted an opportunity working as a Jr. Media Relations Specialist. I’m still settling into my office and into my new role but here are some things I’ve encountered and have been advised to remember that I thought would be helpful to others who are in this transitioning period as well:

Don’t forget to:

• Update your  resume – Many experts suggest that updating your resume once every six months should become a routine. As a new hire, you’ll probably have the written job description at your disposal. As you get more familiar and comfortable in your role and take on more projects you can add more details. Remember to proofread.
• Update your LinkedIn profile and other professional and/or social media sites – Let your Facebook friends and your professional network know you have moved into a new role. Keeping this current is also a networking opportunity. Take the time out to thank those who wrote references or recommendations on your behalf.
• Rework your budget- I’m a salaried employee yay, but with all my new big girl perks came big girl bills( rental insurance–really?!)  Figure out your take-home pay (paycheckcity.com is helpful). Make sure to factor in “fun”  into your budget like going out to eat as well as your rent and utilities.
• Ask about your benefits – I had an absurd amount of paperwork in front of me after my first day of work. 401Ks, life insurance and health plans. I’m 23– what do I know about retirement plans? I had no idea what a premium was and what plan or package was the best for me. Most employers give about 30 days for initial enrollment in benefits programs, and many will give you a packet of information before you start to begin musing over. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

At your new job:

• Introduce yourself – These people in the desks or offices next to you are your colleagues. Learn what roles they play and how you will interact with them. Get to know them and what expectations they may have of you.
• Set a routine – Before I began my job, I was up in the wee hours of the morning snickering at Jimmy Fallon and watching Netflix. Be prepared to adjust your schedule and see what works for you. Be sure to factor in travel to and from work– traffic is not always your friend.
• Learn the office culture- You probably read a general corporate culture statement before you applied for the job, but I’m referring to things like dress code( Do you have casual Friday?), protocol on lunch breaks, taking time off and any other policies and procedures.
• Decorate- You’re going to spend 8 or more hours at your desk. Personalize your space with work appropriate pictures and items that will make you more comfortable. It is also important to make sure you have essentials(a computer, keyboard, phone, pens, etc.)
• Don’t forget to be amazing and *cue Rihanna* shine bright like a diamond!