I have landed a life changing job. Anyone ever had a drastic change like this? How did you deal with the change?

[Vampiricouncil]

It’s a big increase in pay.
It’s big change day to day.
I have gone from public sector to private world wide company.
No more jeans and jumper to work.
Attending big corporate events, lots of travel and lots of company meetings.

Having been public sector I have never ever had perks like this.

I’m fat, I’m over 50, I have never had “nice” clothes, I don’t drink alcohol and I’m not inclined to ever attend any social events.
Never ever attend social events at work. Never.

I want to make this about being the new me.
To tolerate social events, meet and talk to loads of new people, to really enjoy a life I have never known.
Anyone ever done this?

Congratulations!

I've worked in both the flashy corporate side and the public sector, so there is a big difference. However.... I'm not sure I would ever view travel, meetings and corporate events as perks!

My advise is to fake it til you make it. Get some clothes that suit your new job - they'll really help to make you feel different.

Why don't you attend social events now?

I’ve been browsing the Next website, ordered some smart black trousers and some smart shirts.
I’ve been bought myself a little case on wheels for my overnight trips!!

I never knew that there were such jobs out there!

Socially awkward and a bit of anxiousness I suppose.
It’s never been my thing as I don’t drink alcohol at all & cba to be around pissed people.

I went the other way in September and had to go back to suit and tie (school).

Turned 50 too.

Good luck!

Showing your face will be important as will faking it as much as you can.

You don't have to stay for the full event though. If it's networking after an all day thing, stay and chat to the key person / people you want to and then leave.

You'll notice it's only the junior / young / unattached / senior partner looking to bed one of the others who stay until the bitter end

Get this book. It has tons of tips how to connect with people, great if you're not too comfortable with social events. www.amazon.co.uk/Convince-Them-Seconds-Less-Connections-ebook/dp/B00DVNPZ5S/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=90+seconds&tag=mumsnetforu03-21&qid=1639637516&sr=8-2

I would also get invest in a blazer/jacket or some sort.

Next is ok, but I think you’d be better looking for some higher end pieces as your staples and then flinging in some slightly cheaper tops to mix/match.

Post in the style and beauty section for some recommendations.

Networking can be really dull but it can also be really important. Brush up on your comm skills and perhaps take up some training on this? DH works for a big blue chip as he’s had this type of comm training.

Depending on the salary level I'd go for Hobbs over Next.

Will you actually enjoy the job if you don't enjoy socialising? My experience is that lots of people don't drink/drink very little at work functions so you should be able to find your "tribe". Just avoid the youngsters!

Oh my goodness! I thought Next was high end!! I’ve never ever paid £30 for a shirt!
I’m a charity shop kinda girl!!

I am SO excited about this move. I can’t wait to meet them all, small U.K. workforce based. They seem just lovely people!
Im looking forward to actually enjoying the work, the new life instead of the drudge I’ve always known.

Congratulations 🎊 so exciting. If you're unsure re clothes, the Style and Beauty regulars are incredibly kind and helpful. May sound trivial but "looking the part" does help with confidence while you find your feet. Best of luck on your first day

John Lewis do personal styling. It’s free.

Well done getting the job.

Oh my goodness! I thought Next was high end!! I’ve never ever paid £30 for a shirt !I’m a charity shop kinda girl!!

Good quality clothes last. I have some Hobbs suits, skirts and dresses that are 15+ years old.

Congratulations, it all sounds really exciting!!

I was often living out of a suitcase in my pre-COVID work life, and I would recommend buying a few smart dresses (Boden, Hobbs) in materials that won't crease easily. It makes it easier to pack (one item = one outfit), and easier to accessorise (flats and a scarf for meetings, heels for evening event, etc.)

I also always pack slipper socks (hate walking barefoot on hotel carpets) and snacks

As PP have said, you don't have to stay for the duration at networking events. Think of them as part of your job: attend, behave in a professional manner, chat to a few interesting / useful people, then leave!

Congratulations. Enjoy the new found freedom to indulge yourself a little.

Second Hobbs. It was actually a stylist in John Lewis who converted me. The clothes are well-made and last way longer than you want to still be wearing them!

I find Next poorly made, don't last and don't fit well.

But more importantly - CONGRATULATIONS! Good on you securing the role. Have a blast!

What is the work of the company and what sort of role will you be doing?

Congratulations! How exciting!

I too was going to suggest John Lewis personal styling. You give them a budget and tell them it’s for work and they’ll give you lots of options.

Sorry, no advice on clothes etc, just wishing you all the best with your life change. Really cheering to read!

Congratulations.

I'd be booking myself a personal shopping experience with somewhere like John Lewis. The right clothes will really help your confidence. Good luck.

Congratulations

Sounds very exciting

Can you not just be yourself and do the job? It's a lot of pressure on yourself to reinvent yourself as a person. Having said that, a new wardrobe that you're confident in would help I think. Good luck with the new job!!

I've moved between charity and corporate a couple of times. Its goodbye heroin track Mark's and benefits, hello money, long hours and people who say things that would've got people sacked!!

Yes enjoy the upsides. Dressing up. I dont think I paid for a drink or lunch the whole time I was there!

Congratulations!!!! This is wonderful.

Congratulations!

What sector? Even law is less corporate clothes wise these days. I'm in prof services, no one wears shirts or two piece suits anymore. Mostly skirts / dresses with a jacket or blazer. I wouldn't get too much until you've seen how the others dress.