Your first day has arrived!
It’s completely normal to feel a range of emotions on your first day: excitement, anxiousness, nervousness, determination. Whatever you’re feeling, use that emotion to kick you into gear for a great day ahead.
Here’s our top tips for making our first day a success 👇
- Plan your journey
It’s a good idea to practice your commute to your new workplace a few days before to familiarise yourself with the journey. This could mean driving in and knowing where the parking spots are or taking the public transport route, so you know exactly where to get on and get off.
While you may think it’s a good idea to arrive super early on your first day, it’s actually not. Your new manager and team need to prepare for your arrival, so make sure you give them time. Try to arrive between 5–10 minutes early.
2. Wear work-appropriate clothes
Your interview would have provided some insight into the workplace’s dress code, so try to mirror this.
The type of clothing you’ll be required to wear also depends on your job. Some jobs may provide a uniform (make sure it’s neat and complete!), while others will allow you a personal dress code.
Most corporate jobs don’t have a uniform but they have a policy on appropriate clothing.
Regardless, make sure your outfit gives a great first impression — because first impressions count!
3. Meeting new people
You will be introduced to a number of colleagues on your first day. It’s likely you won’t remember everyone’s name, and that’s okay — people will be very understanding of this. Each time you meet someone new, make sure you shake their hand and give them a warm smile. It’s also nice to ask people what their role is and show an interest in what they do.
Remember, the most important thing is to be yourself; it will take time to get to know everyone, and people are interested in getting to know you
Pro Tip: To make a great first impression, always repeat back the name of someone new you meet. For example, “it’s great to meet you Simon!”
People love the sound of their own name — it helps to create a connection. Plus it will help with name recall.
4. Listen and ask questions
The best way to approach your first day is to listen as much as possible. Don’t try to solve all their problems on day one. Take in as much information as possible, and ask lots of questions if anything is unclear.
5. Take notes
Never underestimate the benefit of a notepad and pen! You will thank yourself later when you need to remind yourself of that important piece of information.
6. Thank your manager at the end of the day
When it’s time to finish up for the day, make the effort to thank your supervisor/manager for their help and time. Let them know you enjoyed your day and look forward to returning tomorrow.
We wish you all the best for your first day! 😁
If you found this useful, you’ll love our Job Search Secrets course. We’ve got stacks full of information, like reach-out templates, tips for writing a winning CV and in-depth advice on how to nail your interview. Check it out here: https://useverb.com/courses/jobsearchsecretscourse 🚀
