What are some essential tips for managing my professions as a new player in WoW?

As a new player in World of Warcraft, I'm excited to dive into the professions system, but I'm unsure where to begin. There are so many options, and I'm worried about making inefficient choices.

What are some essential tips for choosing and managing professions? Should I focus on gathering or crafting? How can I maximize my benefits from professions as I level up?