Crafting?

[HaplessHermit]

I'd also recommend getting access to Grand Companies (not to be confused with Free Companies) as soon as possible. Not saying this to rush you, but because if you don't you'll lose out on a good amount of seals (for doing everyday things you already do, like FATEs), which act as a currency for you to buy things like special gear and exp+ books for crafters and gatherers (VERY nice). Don't worry too much, I had already hit well past the 100 FATE mark by the time I joined mine. Also it really doesn't matter which one you join, the main difference is in the gear offered.

I believe you get access to them shortly after Lord of the Inferno (level 20 story quest) or something? It's around there.

[Conradus]

I believe you get access to them shortly after Lord of the Inferno (level 20 story quest) or something? It's around there.

The main scenario quest immediately after beating story-mode Ifrit in Lord of the Inferno starts your induction into a Grand Company. This all happens at level 20, yes. It actually takes three quests to complete your induction. You'll get offered GC membership in A Hero in the Making, you'll choose which GC you want to join by choosing the appropriate Company You Keep quest (and then be required to do an instanced fight), and then you get a third quest finalizing your induction (Wood's Will Be Done, Till Sea Swallows All or For Coin and Country, depending on which GC you chose).