Got my FT

Congratulations on landing the role at FTI! Now, let’s focus on making sure you hit the ground running and prove your value in the first six months. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can be a useful employee and avoid any early missteps:

1. Be Proactive in Learning

• Since you didn’t intern, there might be a steeper learning curve. Take the initiative to familiarize yourself with the firm’s tools, processes, and industry jargon. If there are training materials or resources, dive into them early.
• Ask colleagues for recommendations on what to read or study to get up to speed.

2. Effective Communication

• Always listen carefully to instructions and clarify if you’re unsure. It’s better to ask questions upfront than to make mistakes later.
• Before meetings or check-ins, prepare by thinking about what you want to say and what input you need from others. This shows you’re organized and thoughtful.

3. Show Enthusiasm and Curiosity

• Be keen to learn and take on tasks, even if they seem small or tedious. This demonstrates your willingness to contribute.
• Ask thoughtful questions about the work and the industry. It shows you’re engaged and eager to grow.

4. Master the Basics

• Pay attention to detail in everything you do—whether it’s formatting a document, running numbers, or preparing slides. Mistakes on small tasks can hurt your credibility.
• Learn the tools you’ll be using (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) inside out. If you’re not confident, spend time practicing outside of work hours.

5. Build Relationships

• Get to know your team and colleagues. Be friendly, approachable, and respectful. Strong relationships can make a big difference in how you’re perceived.
• Find a mentor or someone who can guide you through the unspoken rules of the firm.

6. Manage Expectations

• When given a task, ask about deadlines and priorities. If you think something will take longer than expected, communicate that early.
• Under-promise and over-deliver. It’s better to exceed expectations than to fall short.

7. Stay Calm Under Pressure

• Stressful situations will arise, but staying composed is key. If you’re overwhelmed, prioritize tasks and tackle them one at a time.
• Remember the advice from WSO threads: smile under stress—it helps you stay calm and projects confidence.

8. Seek Feedback

• Regularly ask for feedback on your performance. It shows you’re committed to improving and helps you identify areas to work on.
• Act on the feedback you receive. This will demonstrate growth and adaptability.

9. Avoid Common Pitfalls

• Don’t be passive or wait for work to come to you. Volunteer for tasks and show initiative.
• Avoid being overly casual or unprofessional, especially around senior colleagues. First impressions matter.

10. Stay Organized

• Keep track of your tasks and deadlines. Use tools like to-do lists or project management apps to stay on top of your responsibilities.
• Being reliable and consistent will make you a trusted member of the team.

By following these steps, you’ll not only survive your first six months but also set yourself up for long-term success. Remember, the key is to stay humble, work hard, and continuously learn. Good luck—you’ve got this!

Sources: Advice for summer and return offer rate?, How to ace your first 90 days?, What I Wish Every First Year Analyst Knew, Year 1 in consulting - tips, tricks, advice, and unspoken rules., The trials and tribulations of the MBA Associate: Three reality checks for your first three months