6 FOOLPROOF WAYS TO HAVE A GREAT FIRST DAY AT A NEW JOB
Congratulations! You nailed the interview and landed the job. Once the adrenaline rush subsides, however, you may start to feel nervous about that first day in the new office. One surefire way to combat those jitters is to take action. Making some preparations in advance and getting into the right mindset will allow you to put your best foot forward from the get-go. The following first-day guidance comes from Sharon Schweitzer, business etiquette expert and founder of Protocol & Etiquette Worldwide. So, take a deep breath and get to prepping. You got this!
ABSORB COMPANY CULTURE AND HISTORY
According to Schweitzer, it’s wise to take some time before the first day arrives to read everything you can find about your new company’s culture. “This includes social media postings, websites, employer profiles, any annual reports, and printed material.” Also, take a peek at any biographies and LinkedIn profiles of the leadership team, your team, and your new supervisor. This way, you’ll be familiar with at least a few names and faces and you can get a sense for what it means to be a good team member at this particular company.
ARRIVE EARLY
The benefits of getting to work early are many and varied, and it’s especially important on your very first day. As Schweitzer points out, “arriving a few minutes early sends a clear message that you are motivated and ready to work. Take this time to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings and get comfortable.”
FOLLOW THE 80/20 RULE
There’s a lot to absorb during that initial period in your new environment. Remain humble in soaking up all the new information around you by spending 80 percent of the time actively listening and the other 20 percent asking open-ended questions. When in doubt, simply listen and observe.
PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR WARDROBE AND PERSONAL GROOMING
“Prepare your first-day outfit based on company culture and the job you seek, not the position you were hired to fill,” Schweitzer advises. “In addition, have your wardrobe prepared for the entire first week in advance. Iron, launder, and dry-clean dresses, shirts, and suits.” Personal grooming is also a top priority, so make sure your hair is tidy and your nails and teeth are cleaned, and of course take a shower – but skip the perfume.
REMEMBER TO BRING NOTE-TAKING TOOLS
Remember that organized and professional appearance you presented at the interview? Now’s the time to prove that it wasn’t all an act. “Depending on company culture, bring both an electronic and traditional paper tablet in professional business cases. You may be ushered into a training or meeting immediately upon arrival. Avoid appearing hapless on day one with nothing for note taking.”
SAY “THANK YOU”
At the end of the first day, Schweitzer suggests sending a quick note thanking the folks who helped you navigate your first day on the job, as it “puts you in contact with your new colleagues and demonstrates that you’re glad to be part of the team.”
Source: PopSugar
6 Foolproof Ways to Have a Great First Day at a New Job
