Beginning a new job is both exciting and terrifying!

In your new role, you will need to quickly settle in and understand how your role fits within the organization. This process can sometimes feel like being a fish out of water.

However, by preparing for your first day, not only can you understand your new position faster, but you can also better impress your co-workers and make a stellar first impression.

Follow these steps for a smooth first day.

Before your first day

  • Re-read the job description. This will help to remind yourself of the full scope of your roles and responsibilities.
  • Confirm what to expect. Reach out to your new manager and ask what to bring (e.g., hiring paperwork), to do (e.g., prepare an introductory presentation to the team), and how your first day will unfold.
  • Make final preparations. You should:
    • Choose an appropriate outfit for the workplace culture.
    • Pack your bag, including a pen and/or pencil, notebook, phone, chargers, headphones, water bottle, snack, and lunch.
    • Confirm the route to work.
    • Set an alarm with extra time allocated to get ready.
    • Get a good night’s sleep.
    • Have a filling breakfast.

First day checklist

  • Take a deep breath. Before you enter the workspace, check in with yourself to calm any potential nerves.
  • Arrive early. 10-15 minutes is common.
  • Make a good first impression. Be enthusiastic, kind, and polite to everyone you interact with.
  • Introduce yourself to all your new colleagues. State your name, your new role title, where you worked previously, and express your excitement to join the team.
  • Ask questions! Your manager, colleagues, and admin staff are all great resources. If available, even see if someone is willing to be your formal or informal mentor.
  • Make connections and build positive relationships with your co-workers. Find common interests, offer to eat lunch together, and ask questions to learn more about their roles.
  • Write everything down. Use a notebook to keep track of important information (e.g., dates, names, protocols, phone numbers, tasks, codes etc.). This will help you work more independently faster and will serve as an invaluable reference tool.
  • Be organized. Good workplace habits should start on day one. So, take the extra time to carefully organize your emails, files, papers, hiring forms, etc.
  • Observe others. Take time out of your day to observe the organizational culture and office dynamics. For example, are people more casual or formal? Talkative or reserved? Collaborative or independent? This will help you know how you should best adjust to the office culture.
  • Begin finding a routine. Once you understand what your short- and long-term tasks are, determine what work routine(s) might function best for you and the organization.
  • Thank everyone and say goodbye at the end of the day.
  • Treat yourself! After a long first day, it’s always important to ground yourself and do something you enjoy (e.g., read a book, take a bath, go on a drive etc.).

Final thoughts

While beginning a new role may feel overwhelming, remember that this is completely normal. However, by establishing positive work relationships and habits early, you can best ensure that you will not only survive but thrive in your new position!