Getting to know a new work environment can be a daunting experience especially if it’s your first day, a lot comes to mind for instance, will your colleagues like you? or am I dressed accordingly?
Some if not most of us have had those overwhelming feelings of wanting to fit in and impressing the boss on the first day. If you understand the key performance indicators for your role and prepare beforehand you stand a better chance of doing a good job.
The don’ts
The first week is the most crucial time to orientate yourself about your new workplace, according to Nasdaq here are some basic things of what not to do:
- Don’t show up late! This leaves a bad impression on employers, before starting a new job test drive how long it will take to get to your workplace taking into consideration traffic and accidents on the roads.
- Don’t dress unprofessionally, talk to your human resources department about the dress code for the office or workplace.
- Don’t skip the orientation process, this gives you a better understanding of the company, who your supervisor will be and the nature of your job.
- Don’t take too many personal calls, put your phone on vibrate or silent and make calls on your own time.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help, by not asking questions you only set yourself up for failure.
The do’s
According to Indeed this is how you can rock on the first day of work:
- Dress up according to the company dress code, first impressions last and if you feel good there are high chances that you will do good. Should you be confused with the dress code, it’s better to choose a professional dress code, for example, a dress, a pantsuit or semi formal attire.
- Be friendly, this will help your colleagues open up to you. Smile, be cheerful and introduce yourself not in just a professional manner but just at least two attributes about you they may like.
- Eat lunch with your colleagues to get to know them better and understand the dynamics of the workplace.
- Building a professional relationship with your employer, by availing yourself when they need clarity on certain things. Be free to ask if they need your help for anything and ask questions instead of assuming.
- Pay attention to your body language. It’s one form of communication that people take note off, your confidence should be your demeanor.
First day on the job should be, how can you make the job of your boss easier and to communicate that with them. This will leave a long lasting impression and for your boss to know your intentions.
