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?

Old school

Congratulations!
If you have the ££ now is the time to invest in some external career coaching to help you to navigate the new environment. Identify also a buddy and an internal mentor as soon as you can on arrival. Don't underestimate culture shocks as you move between sectors- it is good that you are thinking ahead.

There’s a book which was recommended on here a while ago, I heartily recommend it OP. It’s called The First 90 Days by Michael Watkins and it’s about how to manage professional transitions.

I would suggest booking a personal shopper at John Lewis (shame Debenhams has gone because they did good personal shopping) they can help you put together a capsule wardrobe befitting your new role. Also recommend a trip to the make up counter for a free makeover, get some new stuff (boots number 7 is fine) . I do recommend spending a bit more so you have well fitting clothes you don't need to pull at or adjust and super comfy smart shoes for events. If events are international I would ensure outfits are fairly modest because you will be dealing with men who come from different cultures

Another vote for Hobbs! Most of my work wardrobe is dresses that I've bought in their sales!

Ha, I know what you mean about once getting a pen! I got some post it notes once and that's about it. (I mean, I was pleased with the post it notes, can never find any when you need them, but . . .)

Enjoy any perks - I hope you get first class/business class travel (whatever it's called these days).

They obviously like and value what they saw in the interview and application, they're lucky to be getting you!

I did similar went from nursing to running a company our clients are known to always be suited and booted so we are still formal when meeting customers but definitely even we have become more casual.

It echo other posters Boden, Mint Velvet, Hobbs, Phase eight. Next does some designer collaborations now called mix and I've picked up some nice bits from that in the sale.

Be very wary of silky blouses that are actually polyester as they usually make you sweaty.

I'm a more naturally reserved person in networking and work social events and I 2nd fake it until you make it. Also I always make sure if I'm nervous I'm wearing something that makes me feel great.

And OMG you've reminded me of my nursing days and when I forgot my pens. My pain was real hunting for one!

Well done and good luck.

What perks are you going to get? I'd love to hear more about it so I can vicariously enjoy it! :)

Definitely a good work bag. I bought a sheer leather black laptop bag by Longchamp. It was in the sale. Looks expensive and is practical. Goes with any outfit but I always look put together with a great workbag and shoes. Chanel earrings instantly elevate anything you wear. I work with a few Italians and they are impeccably dress. Even smart casual is carefully curated. Also invest in grooming your hair. Again can make you look chic instantly.

@StellaAndCrow

What perks are you going to get? I'd love to hear more about it so I can vicariously enjoy it! :)

I'd like to hear more too.....

I have to go back to work and I really need some inspiration!

Congratulations.

Congratulations! What do you actually do? Same age civil servant here wanting to be brave but...

Well fitting clothes are a costume. Even if you are a wee bit fat, spend money on things that fit, in wool, silk, cotton, that breathe. You will now be able to afford dry cleaners so don't be put off by things that don't machine wash.
Jigsaw used to do suits with two different style skirts and a pair of trousers - that's three bottoms to match one jacket - which is pretty good for needing a uniform but variety, just add blouses, shell tops and necklaces.
And try not to drink too many of the free drinks!
Invest in good comfortable shoes that you can stand around in networking. Remember the old "tell me about yourself..." line when stuck for words

Also recommend Hobbs highly, have suits years old that that still look great.
For separates, recommend smart trousers with a slight stretch, and pockets. Satin shirts in rich colours are fantastic (eg:M&S) - Cool if you get menopausal hot flushes, look smart, skim nicely over any bumps, completely uncreaseable, wash and dry quickly, no ironing.

Congrats on your new role.