Starting a new job can be exciting—but also full of questions no one quite prepares you for. How do you build a productive relationship with your new supervisor? What’s the best way communicate clearly and confidently when everything feels new? How do you stay on top of everything while learning it for the first time?

Join the Young and Emerging Professionals (YEP) Committee for a candid, interactive panel discussion that dives into the unspoken challenges of starting out in the workplace. You’ll hear real stories and practical tips from peers who’ve been in your shoes and gain insight into how to show up with confidence, communicate effectively, and learn as you go—without the pressure of having it all figured out.

Engage with fellow young and emerging professionals to exchange experiences, explore solutions, and strengthen your urban forestry network!

We’ll talk about how to shift your mindset for success, overcome imposter syndrome, and handle the pressure to “figure it all out” right away. You’ll also learn how to ask for help (without feeling like a bother), seek out useful feedback, and master communication habits that help you sound confident and stay clear—whether in meetings, messages, or day-to-day conversations.

This webinar isn’t just a lecture—it’s an interactive space to ask questions, learn from real experiences, and gain practical tools you can apply right away to feel more confident and in control at work. Whether you’re fresh out of school or settling into a new role, you’ll leave feeling better prepared, more connected, and empowered to succeed. Be ready to engage in breakout discussions and Q&A—we encourage participants to turn on their cameras and audio to join the conversation.

At the end of the webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Describe practical ways to build a positive working relationship with a new supervisor, including how to ask for support and set boundaries.
2. Recognize common early-career challenges, such as imposter syndrome or workplace culture shifts, and explore strategies to navigate them with greater confidence.
3. Apply simple time and task management techniques to stay organized, focused, and engaged without feeling overwhelmed.

ISA CEUs applied for and pending.