First day at work

Nervous about starting a new job? Butterflies are completely normal but here are a few top tips to help you beat the jitters and create a good impression on your first day.

 

1. A good night’s sleep 
   If late nights are a regular thing for you, try and get into a routine of going to bed early and getting up early before starting the job. 

2. Research is key
   Find out as much as you can about the organisation before you start. This will make you feel more confident about asking questions as you’ll feel reassured that you’re not asking something really obvious!

3. Practice makes perfect
   Work out how you’ll get to the office on your first day and practice your route the day before. That way you’ll be sure to turn up on time.

4. Eat well
   Have a good breakfast on the morning of your first day and take a packed lunch with you. You may be taken out for lunch but it’s best to be prepared so you don’t end up going hungry.

5. Dress code
   Take note of what people are wearing in the office when you interview and dress for your first day based on that. If in doubt, it’s always best to be overdressed than underdressed.

6. Time is of the essence
   Arriving early each day and staying a little later than expected shows that you’re hardworking and keen to impress.

7. Take notes
   Day 1 is basically an information overload. Make sure you take a notepad and pen with you to jot down as much as you can to avoid feeling totally swamped a week down the line. This is also a good technique for remembering people’s names

8. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
   Asking questions shows that you’re keen to learn and makes sure you fully understand what’s being asked of you.

9. Smile!
   Starting your first day with a positive attitude, being friendly and smiling at everyone you meet will immediately help people to warm to you. Introduce yourself to as many people as possible and remember to thank those who have helped you.

10. Avoid office politics
    All offices have their own individual cultures, and as part of that, their own politics. It can be tempting to join in with office gossip to fit in but try to find other common ground rather than getting involved.

11. Find a buddy
    Make friends with someone who seems to know the office inside and out so you can learn any workplace quirks from them.

12. Meet the boss
    Set up an early meeting with your line manager to find out what excellence looks like and then keep them informed of all your progress. Make sure you don’t overload them though. Find out how often they want to be updated and stick to that, unless you have any burning questions.

13. Take initiative
    Don’t always wait to be told what to do. If you can see that something needs doing and you know how to do it, go for it!

14. Don’t be yourself straight away
    This may seem odd advice but waiting until you’ve properly settled in to be yourself can help you to fit in. If you’re particularly talkative for example, try and be a bit quieter until people know you a little better.

15. Be confident!
    You got the job so you’re definitely capable of doing it. Believe in yourself, work hard and you’ll be just fine!