Actually I think this is just as applicable to running an instance in a new role. For example my main is a warlock and when I started tanking on my pally I was a nervous wreck. I had more responsibilities and my mistakes meant wiping my group more often then not. My anxiety came back in full force yesterday when I decided to heal for the first time. Here is some advice that helped me:

1) Read up on your spec. Before you step into your first instance know what most of your spells do and when to use them. It's going to be hard enough anyways, the last thing you need to be worried about is not knowing which spell to use.

2) TELL your group BEFORE you go in that this is your first time healing/tanking/dpsing. That way when you make your inevitable mistakes everyone will know it is not because you are stupid but because you are a newbie (NOT noob). They will be expecting a few wipes and I have found most people are very patient. This might lead to you being kicked from the group but it is their time too and I feel they have every right to do this. But to this day I have never been kicked after saying this. Most appreciate the warning and you can get a lot of help and good advice this way.

3) If you can run with guildies. This is not needed but it does help. This way your mistakes are less embarrassing and more hysterical; like healing the first few pulls in your tanking set wondering WHY you are burning through your mana so fast. You're more likely to have quite a few laughs at your expense. Fun times.

4) Remember that we have ALL been there. To be good at something you need experience and unless they are a jerk most people understand that. We make mistakes, we learn, and we hopefully laugh. Also you won't be a newbie forever so enjoy these awkward moments while they last.

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