The first day of work at your new job may be among the most memorable – and perhaps stressful – of your career. I remember my first days at every job because of the heightened pressure to impress, but I found out how to reduce my anxiety by being as meticulous in planning my first day as I was in securing my new position. So, I suggest the first day sets the tone for the rest of your career with those who you’ll be interacting with.
sets the tone for the rest of your career
Here are 11 things I do on the first day of a new job:
1. Prepare and ask questions
Generally, you’re trying to demonstrate your curiosity and desire to learn. So it’s a good idea to prepare by writing down both practical and general questions about how you can be most successful in the role. Make sure you also have a contact in HR in case you have very basic inquiries before you start or on your first day.
Have a list of questions handy for managers you think you might meet.
2. Prepare an elevator pitch
Get ready to give a 30-second explainer of who you are and where you were before, as many new colleagues will likely ask about your previous place of employment. Be prepared to also describe what you’ll be doing in this new position.
3. Show up early
Get there at least 15 minutes early.
4. Relax
Remember to relax on your first day so that you can optimize your productivity. Make sure you’re well rested, prepared, and have every reason to be on time.
5. Smile
Smile when you meet new people, and shake their hands. Introduce yourself to everyone, and make it clear how happy and eager you are to be there. Your co-workers will remember.
Don’t forget to be happy and enjoy the moment
6. Don’t try too hard
The urge to impress can take you off-track, so remember that you don’t have to wow your new colleagues: you’ll impress them naturally.
7. Don’t turn down lunch
If you’re offered to go have lunch with your new boss and co-workers, go! It’s important to show that you’re ready to mingle with your new team.
8. Listen and observe
The best thing anyone can do is listen, listen, and listen. Be friendly, meet people, smile, and listen.
Be prepared to take lots of notes
9. Put your cell phone on silent
You need to be 100% present at work, especially on the first day.
10. Show interest
You’ll likely be introduced to many people, and while they may make the first attempt to learn a little about you, make an effort to find out about them. They will help you do your job better.
11. Leave with a good attitude
The last thing to remember is that while the first day at a new job is very important, you shouldn’t be too hard on yourself if it doesn’t go flawlessly.
Yes, you should prepare and try to do your best, but remember that if you try to accomplish too much, you may get overwhelmed. Know that there’s always tomorrow.
