Congratulations, you’re hired!
When you finally land that great new job you’ve worked so hard to find, it’s really something to celebrate. However, now you’re facing new challenges – learning all about a new company, new tasks, new co-workers, even a new commute.
Don’t panic! With a bit of preparation, you can ace your first day at work, just like you did your final job interview.
Here are a few important ways you can make sure your first day on the job goes smoothly.
7 Tips For Your First Day on The Job
1. Get There Early
Don’t be late for your first day! Know the route you’ll drive, or the public transportation you’ll use, as well as how long your commute will take.
“If you really want to be safe, get up one morning and give it a test run,” says Top Resume. Then, add an extra 10 minutes to be sure you’re on time. “Showing up a little early is OK but being late on day one starts things off on the wrong foot in a big way.”
2. Turn Off Your Cell Phone
Studies show people check their phones anywhere from 100 to 300 times a day! However, a new employee who is constantly glancing at their screen will appear distracted and disinterested. Put the phone down and focus on your new environment and the people in it.
3. Introduce Yourself
Pretty much everyone you meet on your first day will want to know something about you, so consider preparing a brief “elevator pitch.” This might include your name, your previous company or line of work, and any personal information you want to share. But, as Asana reminds, don’t forget to learn something about your co-workers, too. You can ask what they like best about their job, their interests outside of work, where they grew up or if they have pets, for instance.
4. Learn Your Way Around
You may have been shown around the office during your interview, but you’ll likely get another tour on your first day. Learn the location of bathrooms, break rooms, copy machines, coat closets, etc. A good administrative assistant can be a great ally, providing directions, helping with office supplies, computer log-ons and refreshing your memory regarding co-workers’ names.
5. Ask Questions
You’ll probably have a lot of questions on your first day; don’t be afraid to ask them. Jot down your thoughts even before you start the job, so you don’t forget them. But don’t start off your first day interrogating your boss.
“Bring up questions as they seem appropriate,” Liz Wessel, co-founder and CEO of WayUp, told Fast Company, but “wait until your onboarding is over.” There’s a good chance your company’s orientation will resolve a lot of your concerns.
6. Listen, Observe, and Take Notes
There’s a lot of new information to absorb. Listen, take notes and prepare to learn a lot! Don’t forget to write down the names of supervisors, co-workers and their titles to avoid confusion later. In fact, Live Career recommends you “listen 90% of the time and talk just 10% of the time” so you can focus more on absorbing what you learn.
7. Accept Lunch Invitations
“If your coworkers or manager invites you to eat lunch with them, you should accept the offer, “even if you brought your lunch, says Indeed. It’s a great way to learn about your new role, as well as get to know your co-workers and learn more about the company culture.
Your first day at work can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Having a plan for how you’ll handle things can help ease your first-day jitters. That way, you can concentrate on learning the ropes and laying the groundwork for the great career ahead of you!
Still in the job search process? Reach out to Pro Resources Staffing Services for expert assistance in finding a great new position.