Visakha

Whether it’s starting at college or going to a job interview, first-time experiences can be a little daunting. However, they don’t have to be.

Read on to find out how to fool-proof your firsts.

Meeting the parents for the first time:

A swift straw poll reveals that it’s his mom that you’ve got to work on. Dads, they reckon are a pushover. So imagine you’re your boyfriend’s mum. Until now, she’s been the most important lady in his life. Sounds odd, but she probably feels a teensy bit jealous. So let her know you’re not ‘stealing’ her golden boy by including her in your conversations. “I hear your paneer sabzi is the best.” Moreover, she’ll also feel protective. Will you break his heart or lead him astray? So leave that guy-magnet mini at home and show her you appreciate his inner strengths. Don’t overdo it though, otherwise you’ll come across as fake. Finally, do help clear away the table. By the time you’ve bonded over the washing up, you’ll be his mum’s new best friend.

Your first day at college:

With a crumpled map and a torn timetable falling out of your bag, you finally find your class room…15 minutes late! Minimize new-girl grief by being half an hour early. It’ll give you time to get your bearings instead of entering with a red and flustered face. Don’t forget to turn off your mobile too or risk stares as your embarrassing ringtone echoes painfully through the silence. Everyone feels like a loner on their first day but for no-effort introductions, wear a noticeable accessory like a cute hair clip or a necklace. It’s great for drawing people over to say, “I love your…” And remember, you have the best excuse to start chatting (Excuse me, can you tell me how to find…”)

Going for your first interview:

The only aim of a job interview is to find out two things: will you fit in and can you do the work? To tackle the first part, smile to show what a lovely, sunny addition you’ll be and dress like a slightly smarter version of someone who already works there. Do your research: who are the company’s typical customers and competitors? You’ll already see like part of the team. Next, you’ve got to prove you’re up to it. Suppose the job involves dealing with people, what experience do you have? Have you worked in another job like this before? Always be friendly and polite! Before the big day, ask an experienced person to do a mock interview with you. You’ll ooze so much confidence at the real thing that they’ll probably hire you on the spot!

Your first day at a new job:

It might sound obvious, but being paid means you’re expected to be reliable, so never show up late! No one will expect you to remember everything first time but asking the same thing over and over again can make you feel like a right idiot and busy bosses may get stressed. So take a pocket-sized notebook and note down all Important Things to Remember. Also, ask your new boss in advance what everyone tends to wear. If you look like you already fit in, people will naturally act like you do. Finally, it may feel like Diwali has come early when you discover that one of your colleagues looks like Ranbir Kapoor but save the flirting until you’ve settled in. Chances are, you won’t be his only fan and you need the other girls as friends, not enemies.