Finally landed yourself a sweet new job? Congratulations! Whether this is your first or your twenty-first job there are a few key things to bear in mind to start things off on the right foot and squashing those first day nerves. A new job is always an exciting time of your career so you want to enjoy it, so here’s our practical guide to help you kick-start the next chapter of your career.
Start refreshed
When transitioning between jobs it’s all about the timing. If you can, try to work it so you have a few extra days off after finishing your old job. Take this time to relax, recharge and maybe even squeeze in a little holiday. This will allow you to start your new role refreshed, focused and engaged.
With starting a new job comes a boat load of new information for you to absorb. A big day of learning can leave you totally drained so try to keep your after work plans and commitments to a minimum during your first couple of weeks so you can let yourself rest and start each new day revitalised and ready.
Revisit your research
As the successful applicant of your new role it’s likely that you’ve already carried out in-depth research about the role, company and the industry so now is the perfect time to revisit this research and recap on your learnings. Take some time to revisit the company website and check out their social channels too.
It’s also important to suss the dress code and plan accordingly. Your interview outfit maybe not be the same as the day-to-day workplace dress code. Once you’ve got this worked out plan a few outfits for your first week so you’re not having a ‘Nothing to wear!!!’ moment in the early hours of your second day.
If you’re still unsure of anything, don’t hesitate to ask! Depending on the company you can contact the HR department with any concerns or the person who offered you the job.
Be punctual
In order to avoid a last minute panic and arriving on day one red faced and flustered take some time to map out your journey. Look at different route and transport options and perhaps even do a practise journey so you are fully aware of where you’re going.
On the day make sure you leave early to give yourself a bit of a time buffer for any delays. Both public transport and traffic can be incredibly unpredictable and on your first day/week it’s definitely better to be safe than sorry.
Get acquainted with your team
Regardless of the structure, size and functionality of your team it’s important to get to know them. Forward and friendly is usually the best approach here. Keep your first encounters fairly casual, introduce yourself to new people. Try to spend some one-on-one time with each member of your team and anyone else in the business you might be working closely with. Understand what it is each team member is responsible for, how you’ll be working together and get to know them on a personal level. This will make working together in the future and asking for assistance and favours much easier and friendlier.
Don’t over commit yourself
No doubt you’re bursting at the seams to hit the ground running and for your long standing colleagues your new starter energy may be a breath of motivational fresh air. But, be sure to pace yourself and find your way before becoming a total yes woman/man. Yes, you’ll want to get stuck-in straight away and prove yourself but you don’t want to find yourself absolutely snowed under with 12 major projects at the end of week two.
Set yourself up for success
As the new kid on the block, now’s your chance to fully immerse yourself in your role and the company. Of course, every company will have their own on-boarding process but your first few weeks are the perfect time to delve into the organisation, your team and your role and how it all fits in to the bigger picture. It’s an opportunity to ask questions, get as much training as possible and even shadow your manager or a few of your colleagues. During this time don’t be afraid to ask for guidance or assistance, your colleagues will be expecting it, this will give you a really strong grounding for your role.