The first day in your new role offers valuable opportunities to make a fantastic first impression. It’s natural to feel a mix of both excitement and nerves when you’re starting a new job and that first day can be daunting for even the most talented professional. But it’s important to overcome the sense of trepidation and prove your worth to the company.
Our recommended tips for starting a new job let you settle into your role and relish this next phase of your career.
Key tips for starting a new job
You may have done plenty of research on your new company during the interview stage, but now is the time to refresh your memory. Remind yourself of important facts about the organisation so that you can engage in conversation with your new colleagues.
Your first day on the job calls for extra care and planning. Check transport schedules or parking availability so that you can arrive on time. Double-check all the starting information you've received including which floor to arrive at and who to ask for, and if you're unsure of anything, contact the HR department. If you haven’t already provided them, take along personal information such as your tax file number, details of your bank account and superannuation fund as your new employer will ask for these.
Have a positive attitude
Set your nerves to one side and start your new job with a positive attitude. As you make your new morning commute, remind yourself that the company chose you for the job so you definitely have what it takes to master the role.
Thinking back over the skills and qualities you have developed to this point can further bolster your confidence.
Be confident and outgoing
Your first day on the job is likely to involve a steady flow of introductions, meeting new faces and learning colleagues’ names. If you struggle to put a name to face, don’t be shy about asking for a reminder. You will soon master the who’s who of your new workplace.
It also helps to confidently introduce yourself to co-workers you run into – even if they too don’t instantly commit your name to memory.
Think over your introductory message
Be ready to share information about yourself if asked, or when you are introduced to new colleagues. Avoid a comprehensive life story or plunging into a criticism of previous roles. It’s not necessary to reveal everything about yourself; your background and a little bit about you as a person should be enough.
Creating a professional first impression is important to building strong working relationships.
Stay neutral
One of the worst things you can do when starting a new job is to become involved in office politics or gossip. If conversations with a colleague turn to gossip, politely accept or deflect their opinions without inviting controversy.
Listen and learn
When you’re starting a new job, the first few days and weeks can involve a steep learning curve. Aim to take in as much information as you can and make written notes if necessary to remember any new processes, software or important contact names.
At the same time, be prepared to ask any questions – it's better to make sure you're getting things right from day one than to work away unsure of what you’re doing. You’re not expected to know everything from the get-go and having a thorough understanding of any expectations will help you become a valued team member from an early stage.
As you settle in to your new job, the office environment and your co-workers will soon become more familiar, and you’ll quickly get into the swing of things. By remaining confident, and professional yet approachable in the early days, you’ll cement your reputation as a valued member of the team.
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