There are a lot of things to get used to in a new job, new surroundings, new people and a new culture of work. It is important to fit in with this culture but to also keep your own personality as this is what will make you stand out. Avoid the minefield with these helpful tips to allow you to get on well on your first day.
- Be punctual.
Plan your journal and take into account traffic, do a dry run of the commute if you are not used to it. Arrive early, but not too early, to show you’re eager. Arriving 10-15 minutes early is a good rule of thumb. You can always have a quick coffee if you get there too early. - Have high energy and be sociable.
First days will often include an induction and being introduced to many people and teams and will include very little real work. Make sure not to take a back seat and coast as this will make a poor first impression. Don’t get too engrossed in the paperwork, try to be sociable and make time for people. Be prepared to be invited out for lunch – nothing looks worse than someone saying “no thanks, I brought my own” on their first day. - Practice your introductions.
If you have an “elevator pitch” you will be one step ahead at this point. If you haven’t, then prepare a 30 second explanation of who you are and what your previous role was as new colleagues will most likely ask this as an ice breaker. Research into the company will put you a much better footing to be able to hold a conversation will other staff members at all levels. - Listen and ask questions.
You may have lots of ideas and plans for your new role but your first day is not the time to to express those ideas, it is better to appear to be open-minded than to appear to be overly critical of the organisation. Asking questions, especially well researched questions about the company show that you want to learn more. Take advantage of the fact it is your first day because you can ask even the most obvious questions which you will not be able to get away with further down the line. - Take notes.
With the huge amount of information you will be receiving, taking notes is a very sensible idea, you will appreciate it later. Every detail counts as it will be impossible to remember everything, as the information will come in a non-organised way and may not be easy to follow. Notes also make it invaluable to remember names, when you see that person again and you can remember their name is a great way to build rapport.
These tips will put you in a great position to start your first day off in the way you want to continue – on top of your game.