Your First Day on the Job

You landed the job! Now, prepare to navigate your first day with confidence. How can you set yourself up for ultimate success?

• First, relax and smile—you earned this position!
• Research the company’s dress code in advance, then prepare your outfit and supplies the night before.
• Stick to your normal routine before your start date: eat balanced meals and get a good night’s sleep.
• Arrive at least 15 minutes early. Test your commute ahead of time so you know exactly how long the trip takes.
• Observe your new work environment, learn the organizational hierarchy, and clarify your direct manager. Stay relaxed, alert, and prepared.
• Introduce yourself to your new team to show you are friendly and approachable. Connect with at least one colleague and offer to lend a hand.
• Ask thoughtful, relevant questions.
• Avoid trying too hard—pushing yourself too intensely can alienate your new coworkers.
• Say yes to any lunch invitations from your team.
• Listen and observe. Practice active listening instead of sharing strong opinions during your first few days. Smile, remain receptive, meet people, and remember names.
• Show genuine interest in your colleagues and the company, and pay close attention to body language.
• Demonstrate a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn. Maintain high energy, and bring an upbeat, enthusiastic attitude every day.
• Stay accessible to your manager and follow company rules closely. Once your manager provides your job description, carefully review all your responsibilities.
• Silence your phone to eliminate unnecessary distractions.
• Be yourself, and wrap up your first day with a positive, professional attitude.