Stepping into a professional workplace for the first time can feel like being tossed into the deep end of a pool—exciting but a little overwhelming. When I started my placement year at Kenvue, I quickly realized that the world of corporate work was nothing like university or my past customer service roles. Deadlines were fluid, responsibilities piled up fast, and I was expected to lead from day one. Here’s how I adapted—and thrived—in this new environment.
At first, the pace was intimidating. I was juggling multiple deadlines, managing budgets, and handling supplier relationships while trying to keep up with the constant flow of meetings and projects. Unlike university, where deadlines are set in stone, work deadlines could shift mid-project. It was a steep learning curve, but I discovered that staying flexible and breaking tasks into manageable chunks worked wonders. My manager played a key role in helping me fine-tune my time management skills, which made all the difference.
What surprised me most was how much responsibility I was given. I wasn’t just shadowing or assisting; I was leading. Whether it was organizing weekly team meetings or working directly with suppliers, I was encouraged to take charge. Initially, I doubted myself—how could someone with no corporate experience lead? But the more I stepped up, the more confident I became.
Thankfully, I wasn’t alone. My predecessors extended their handover period to ease me into the role, and my team was always there to guide me when I hit roadblocks. Asking questions, seeking advice, and learning from others’ experiences became my go-to strategies. I also found that connecting with colleagues, from fellow placements to senior managers, helped me feel more integrated into the workplace.
Coming from customer service roles, I initially carried the mindset of always saying “yes” and bending over backward to accommodate others. In the corporate world, I learned the value of boundaries and constructive pushback. For example, instead of agreeing to everything, I started offering solutions that balanced both the team's goals and my workload. This shift in mindset helped me feel more confident and respected in my role.
By the end of the year, I had led research projects, tackled complex tasks like coding surveys, and even facilitated consumer studies. More importantly, I developed a sense of confidence and resilience I never had before. The shy university student who was scared to ask questions is now someone who can confidently present ideas and navigate challenges with ease.
Adapting to a professional environment wasn’t easy, but it was rewarding. It taught me that challenges are just opportunities in disguise, and with the right support and mindset, you can rise to meet them. For anyone stepping into their first workplace: trust the process, ask questions, and don’t underestimate your ability to grow. You’ll be amazed at what you’re capable of!