11 tips for a successful first day at a new job
So, you’ve secured a new job – congratulations! The hard part is over.
Your first day is an exciting time and a fantastic opportunity to make a good impression, but you may be feeling nervous. Before the big day, the best thing you can do is prepare yourself. Here are a few tips to help you make your first day a success.
Before your first day
1. Test out your commute
The last thing you want to do is be late for your first day. Whilst it may have only taken you 15 minutes to drive to your new workplace for an interview on a Wednesday lunchtime, Monday morning rush hour is likely a very different story. Check Google Maps for commute times so you can understand how long it should take you on a normal working day and allow extra time in case you run into any unexpected issues. If your interview took place remotely, make sure you know where to park and how to access the building.
2. Ask about the onboarding process
Speak to HR about the onboarding process, including any paperwork or contracts that need signing, whether there’s an employee handbook, and any other orientation materials so you can make sure your onboarding is as smooth as possible. If you have been assigned a co-worker to mentor you, find out who this is and try to reach out to them online beforehand.
3. Note down any questions
When you’re presented with a pile of new information followed by “Any questions?” it can be easy to forget. Before your first day at your new job, take some time to create a list of questions. This will help you settle in quicker by asking them as and when they become relevant, ranging from “How will my performance be reviewed?” to “Where can I find the toilets?”
4. Plan your outfit
Preparing an outfit means one less thing to think about on your first day. Choose something that makes you feel confident and comfortable, but make sure to adhere to the dress code. If you haven’t been given one, it’s normally a good idea to wear smart business attire. Then, once you’ve started, if you notice people are wearing more casual clothes you can adapt accordingly.
On your first day
5. Be early, but not too early
In an anxious state to be on time, you may end up arriving especially early. This can result in you awkwardly loitering until your colleagues arrive. While it won’t do any harm, it can make you feel more nervous!
6. Be friendly
Be polite and friendly to everyone you meet, even if they’re not in your team. It’s likely that you’ll encounter colleagues from a range of departments during your time at your new company, so being friendly from the start will not only help you get to know them - it will also help others accept you as part of the team.
7. Be mindful of your body language
Body language can speak louder than words – be aware of your posture, eye contact, and facial expressions throughout the day to demonstrate that you are listening and interested when someone is speaking to you, as well as appearing approachable to others.
8. Put your phone away
You need to be 100% present at work, especially on your first day. In some offices it’s acceptable to look at your personal phone if needed, but it is worth reviewing the company manual and the behaviour of your colleagues to understand what is appropriate.
9. Take notes
Write down everything, from where the office supplies are kept to your daily responsibilities. Your first week is a prime opportunity to learn about company goals and priorities and retaining this information will save your new manager time.
10. Ask those questions
Remember the list of questions you wrote in preparation for your first day? It’s time to put them to use! By being inquisitive, you will demonstrate your willingness to learn, as well as helping you to adapt more quickly. Refer to your list, and you may have other questions that arise throughout the day.
11. Listen, observe, and learn
Your first day is a time to listen and learn. Take advantage of the opportunity to soak up as much knowledge as possible. This might include:
An overview of your role and responsibilities
The company mission and values
Names of colleagues and their roles
It may feel overwhelming at first, so try to relax and get a good night’s sleep so you feel energised and ready to process new information from day one.
For further guidance on presenting your best self to potential employers, take a look at our Careers Guidance page or get in touch with your Sanctuary consultant.
