Starting a new job can be both an exciting and nervous time. The first day is a great opportunity to make a good impression with your new company. First-day jitters might occur, but know that those are normal and there are some things you can do to calm your nerves to make your day run a little smoother.
Why is your first day of work important?
The first day of a new job can set the tone for the rest of your time working with a company. It might seem like all eyes are on you on your first day, but not to worry! You made it this far because you deserve the job. Remember that and be your awesome self while setting your future self up for success in your new position.
12 tips for starting a job off on the right foot
Here are some tips to make starting a new job a little easier.
Do your research
You probably researched the company before you had your initial interview, and conducting research is still a good idea even after you’ve been hired. Now that you’ve landed the position, you’ll want to research the company and look over your position again.
This process could include reaching out to your manager to get more details about the job requirements and what to expect on your first day. You may have already been contacted by the hiring manager or someone from HR, but if not, make sure you contact your manager directly so that you can get as many details about the first day as possible. Doing so will help you prepare!
Be aware of your first impressions
First impressions are forever. You might be thinking that this is no longer something you have to worry about because you landed the position already, but your first day is another opportunity to leave a lasting first impression on the rest of your team.
So, make it a point to be your best self and put your best foot forward on your first day. Make sure you dress to impress while also maintaining professionalism and adhering to the dress code of your new company.
Get prepared the day before
It’s important to prepare for your first day before the day arrives. You’ll want to make sure the day goes smoothly, so set yourself up for success by planning your outfit the night before. You can even prepare your breakfast and lunch the night before to make things easier, too!
Working from home? You can still make sure you set out your Zoom outfits, have lunch ready to go, and get all of your work necessities ready to go in the morning. Make sure you set your alarm the night before so that you don’t oversleep.
Show up early
Speaking of setting an alarm, you need to know how long your commute is going to be so that you can make sure you wake up on time. Research your commute ahead of time and make plans to be early.
Keep the weather in mind as it can cause additional traffic delays. It is also a good idea to know your schedule for the work day. Find out when your lunch break will be and if you’ll have any other breaks throughout the day so you can time them correctly.
Remember that trust needs to be earned
You’ve earned your position, and that’s great, but it is also important to remember that you have to put in the work to keep your job as well. It might be hard to not go into your new job without personal demands, but take your time. A new job is like a budding relationship. Both parties are getting to know each other, and over time, you will grow to trust your job, just like they will start to trust you as well.
Introduce yourself to everyone
Knowing the people on your team is very beneficial. You’ll get to meet new people, earn great work resources, and foster team-building skills, but all of that starts with an introduction. Make sure you introduce yourself to as many people as you can. This might be hard to do on the first day without disrupting your workflow, but try to make an effort to meet people whenever possible.
Set healthy boundaries
Another part of being your best self is preserving your health, particularly your mental health. When you start a new job, you’ll want to make the best impression possible. Sometimes, an eagerness to make a good impression can translate to saying yes to all of the tasks on your plate and overwhelming yourself in the process, but it is important to set healthy boundaries.
By setting healthy boundaries from the start, you can make your limits clear to your employer and set the tone. This means clarifying what acceptable work hours and even how much extra work you are willing to pick up.
Create good management skills
Managing your time at a new job can be challenging when you’re also still learning the ropes and finding your way around the office. You’ll still want to make sure you are making enough time to have a healthy work-life balance.
Create a schedule, use a planner, or implement the time management tools that work for you. The goal is to make sure you are staying on task in both your personal and professional lives. Create good productivity skills now while you’re still learning so that they can become long-term healthy habits.
Mind your own business
While it is important to be social at work, it is also important to mind your business at all times. If you involve yourself in matters that are unrelated to you and the completion of the tasks you are responsible for, it can make you look bad.
Pay attention and show interest
Showing interest is a great way to make it clear that you care about your new job. Pay attention during meetings, ask questions often, and stay engaged at all times. This is a great way to make sure others know that you are paying attention and showing interest in your job.
Have a positive attitude
A positive attitude can go a long way. It’s hard to be around someone who is constantly negative or in a bad mood, so avoid becoming that person. While a new job can have its challenges, try to take a positive spin on things whenever you can. This can make situations feel more digestible, and you’ll be able to think more clearly, too.
Ask questions
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s better to seek clarification than make guesses, and your job will likely be understanding because it shows that you want to learn and grow. Just make sure you use your judgment. There might be situations where you can take the initiative and learn things on your own, too.
First day essentials
It’s your first day and there are a lot of unknowns, but many of them are controllable. You might not know the temperature of the building, so dress in layers and bring a sweater. Pack some snacks just in case there isn’t any time for you to grab something at work. But additionally, the most standard items to bring with you on your first day include your new-hire documents and your ID. Also, bring a notepad and pens with you just in case you need to take notes.
Get excited and have fun!
Your first day on the job can be stressful, but there are many things to look forward to and be excited about. Your new role is an opportunity to shine and start advancing in your career. Keep this in mind if those first-day jitters start to take over. Follow these tips for starting a new job and you should have a successful time at your new gig!
FAQ
What is important when starting a new job?
It is important to show that you are taking your new job seriously. This means showing up on time and knowing what tasks need to be completed by when.
How should you act when starting a new job?
You should be yourself when you start your new job while also maintaining an appropriate level of professionalism.
What should you do the night before starting a new job?
The night before, make sure you set out your clothes, pack your lunch, and figure out your commute to make sure you are early for your first day at work.
