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We know that you feel incredibly lucky to secure the job position that you have been aspiring to get. After the long wait and undergoing the competitive application process, the day has finally arrived – your first day of work and you could not help but feel an overwhelming feeling of excitement! However, the idea of entering a brand-new work environment with unfamiliar faces and expectations naturally makes you nervous.
Worry no more, because we are here to provide you with preparation tips that will help you be more confident and have a successful beginning to your new role and workplace.
BEFORE YOUR FIRST DAY:
- DO YOUR RESEARCH – Begin by conducting extensive research about the company. Learn about their history, vision, mission, principles, and current achievements. Having a preview before you enter the company will help you successfully align your work ethics with the mission and culture of the organisation.
- KNOW YOUR ROLE – Reread the job description to refresh your memory on your duties and expectations. This will help you understand what is expected of you from day one.
- PREPARE YOUR QUESTIONS – Keeping a list of questions might be helpful for your following days at work.
- ESTIMATE THE TIME – You can use Google Maps to estimate the distance of the company to your house and estimate how long it will take you to go to work on a typical day. Monday morning rush hour will be a different scenario so calculate everything as early as now to avoid being late on your first day.
- STUDY THE TOOLS – When you arrive at work prepared, your coworkers will appreciate it. Every organization uses tools and applications, and you will have a higher chance of accomplishing your objectives if you familiarize yourself with those tools.
- CONFIRM YOUR SCHEDULE– Don’t assume you know what time you are supposed to arrive or what your lunch break is. Even though it may be in the job description, critical facts may be lacking. Double-check their email and instructions so you can still contact them and ask if some details are missing.
- PREPARE IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS– Compile all necessary papers, including your IDs, payroll account information, and any pre-employment forms. Most companies these days have an online employee self-service system, so make sure that is up to date!
- PREPARE YOUR OUTFIT – Choose your clothing carefully. Check if it adheres to the company’s dress code, which is often available in the employee handbook or by contacting HR. When in doubt, wear something a little more formal.
- PRACTICE YOUR ELEVATOR PITCH – Practice your elevator pitch before your first day so you can provide a great introduction to the workplace and make a strong first impression.
- GET ENOUGH SLEEP – Prior to your first day of work, make sure you get enough sleep because you will not be able to focus and function well if you lack sleep.
ON YOUR FIRST DAY:
- ARRIVE EARLY –Arriving late for work, particularly during your first week, is never a good impression. Arriving early at work will allow you to adjust to the new environment for a few minutes before you begin.
- DRESS TO IMPRESS – The way you present yourself and the confidence you project in your look have a big influence on your career, as the saying goes, “First impressions last”. Dressing appropriately also shows your respect for the organisation.
- WEAR YOUR SMILE – You can let your coworkers know that you’re glad to be working with them by putting on a friendly face. It could also help create a more pleasant and productive work atmosphere.
- POSITIVE BODY LANGUAGE – Use good body language, such as sitting or standing straight with your shoulders back, to demonstrate that you’re paying attention throughout orientation. Do not forget to face the person speaking and make eye contact.
- PAY ATTENTION – Be attentive during your orientation and turn off your phone or keep it silent to avoid distraction.
- TAKE NOTES – This will also be your first orientation so always keep a pen and paper with you and write every important detail.
- ASK QUESTIONS – This is your time to ask your prepared questions. Try to ask smart questions regarding the workplace culture, job expectations, and other work-related matters.
- BUILD CONNECTIONS – You will frequently need to work as part of a team to complete tasks, which is why establishing a good relationship with your coworkers may be valuable throughout your career. Having short casual talks with your coworkers can build a friendly environment and will help you be more familiar with the organisation’s culture.
- EXPRESS GRATITUDE – Before you leave, show appreciation to your mentor and coworkers by thanking them for a great first day.
- SELF-REFLECTION – When you get home after your first day, take some time to refresh the things you have learned and reflect on your experiences. This step will help you to plan for your next day at work.
Starting your first day of work on a work-from-home set-up might be exciting yet challenging. The following tips will help you have a productive and successful first day.
- SET-UP YOUR WORKSPACE – Make sure your workplace is set up before your first day. This entails having any essential tools, like a computer, phone, and internet connection, as well as a comfortable chair, a clean desk, decent lighting, and any other necessary items.
- DO A TEST RUN– Ensure that all your equipment is working properly. Test any tools or software that you’ll be utilizing at work, as well as your computer or laptop, webcam, microphone, and internet connection. You should also have a backup plan in case of possible technical problems.
- LOG IN – Make sure to log in early to avoid technical problems and be late for your first meeting.
- DRESS FOR SUCCESS– Even if working from home might allow you to have more freedom in terms of clothing, think about wearing business attire on your first day. Make sure to dress well if you’re participating in video meetings as it can help you feel the corporate setting and leave a positive impression.
- ACTIVELY PARTICIPATE– During your virtual meetings, try to show that you are willing to learn and work as a team by asking questions, interacting with your coworkers, and being interactive.
- STAY CONNECTED – Make sure you have access to all communication channels utilized by your organization, including email, messaging services, and video conferencing. Make sure you have the tools to communicate with your coworkers and supervisors because you will be working with them for a long period.
Your first day of work is a significant milestone in your career and is frequently accompanied by a mix of excitement and nervousness. No matter if you are starting a new job in a well-known field or pursuing a completely different career path, the first day of work is always significant. Just keep in mind that the first day is only the beginning and the initial step toward blending into a new professional environment. With the correct outlook and attitude, you will position yourself for a successful and long-lasting relationship with your new employer!