Starting your first job or a new career? A little (or a lot) nervous of getting in over your head? Here are a few ways successful newbies get a jumpstart.

Own it: stop selling yourself short. Newbies sometimes introduce themselves by saying, “I am very new so I don’t know…I don’t have a lot of….” Consider how such an introduction is received. It conveys a sense that you have no idea what you’re doing or frankly, are not qualified to be there. While it may seem at times you do not know what you are doing, remember that this is a new job, so of course, you won’t know everything (if you do, it’s not much of a new job or challenge, is it?). Keep in mind that everyone started where you are at some point, so you are not the only one. It is normal to feel overwhelmed at times, but remember that you were hired for several reasons and that you belong there. Avoid giving others the impression that you are so overwhelmed that you might not be ready for the job. While you should not pretend to know things when you do not, own your new role. Get comfortable in it. Feel it. Instead of “I am new…I don’t know,” try “I am new…I offer a new perspective….”

Question and learn: learning doesn’t stop once you get that degree. There will be many things you do not know. So ask. Do not use the excuse “I am new here” not to challenge. It is the newbie that often offers fresh insight much needed in established processes. While newbies feel like they can’t offer an opinion for fear of being judged by those with more seniority, remember that you were hired for your mind. Continue to seek out opportunities to learn at and outside of the job. Ask for the professional development opportunities. Join professional associations.

Go above and beyond: don’t simply accept your given responsibilities and call it a day. Step up. Go beyond what is expected. As long as you do not have to sacrifice quality to complete your responsibilities, seek out opportunities to participate in other projects. Join working teams outside of your immediate scope. It is not only a great way to demonstrate your other talents, but it also helps you to build a cross-functional network and create a record of enthusiasm, teamwork, and achievement.

Own mistakes: yes, you will make mistakes. And it’s OK. It doesn’t mean that you will get fired. But you have to own up to them. Acknowledge, apologize, and address. Newbies sometimes make the mistake after a mistake by being overly defensive in hopes not to get blamed. If you were the one who was responsible, take that responsibility and demonstrate that you have the maturity and ability to move on and learn from it. Taking responsibility demonstrates to others that you are unafraid to take risks, have integrity, and are willing to learn. In other words, someone who is a key team player.

Create a Board of Directors: successful newbies not only find one mentor, they find multiple mentors. These mentors are within and outside of the organization, and are from different sectors, expertise, experiences, and backgrounds. Just as you are multi-dimensional, these individuals will be able to help you address particular concerns as they arise and to become a more complete professional. And as we consult our individual Board of Directors, it is important, even as a newbie, to pay it forward and serve on someone else’s.