Imagine you got a job in your dream company. And you have to join them within a week. You will probably be on top of the world with happiness.
But suddenly, you’ll start to worry about your new workplace, colleagues, and responsibilities. You’ll ask yourself, “ what should I wear on the first day?” “how to network with others?” and many more thoughts!
Well, this happens with all of us.
And to help you out, here we’ve shared some tips for you. Following this will help you to make an awesome impression on the first day.
Things You Should Do on Your First Day in Office:
1- Be a Learner
First day in office means a lot to learn about your company and the work you’re doing. So, don’t forget to be a learner on your first day.
Try to read every document about your company’s culture and policies. If you get any information about the insurance policy, retirement plans, vacation policy, or loyalty program- read attentively!
In short, act as a sponge on your first day. Don’t forget to soak up every information you get. This way, you’ll have a better context about the company and your roles and responsibility.
Here’s a pro tip: try to attend all the onboarding meetings and catch up with your managers. Don’t trust your memory blindly and take notes of every information you learn on the first day. You can review these notes at the end of the day to reflect on what you’ve learned.
2- Dress Up Appropriately
This might sound obvious, but to make a first great impression, you should never forget to dress up well on your first day in the office. These days companies don’t go by a dressing rule book.
So, you don’t have to wear your tuxedo or dress up like you’re going for an interview. On your first day, avoid going over the top. Keep your dress classy and subtle. Make sure to check your dress is not worn-out or dirty at any rate.
3- Maintain Professionalism
Networking, making new friends on your first day in office is definitely important! But don’t forget to maintain professionalism while networking.
Asking personal questions like “ are you married or single?” “do you have kids?” is a big no-no on your first day at work. And if you don’t want to ruin your reputation, keep a safe distance from office politics and gossip.
First impressions can take you a long way. So, don’t ruin it by being over-friendly with the people you’ve just met.
4- Network with Colleagues
I know it is awkward and scary to start a conversation with new colleagues. But, on your first day, you should make efforts to show interest in every colleague. Yes, even if the colleague is not from your department.
First day in office, you’re going to meet many people, from your managers, trainers, to co-workers. So, don’t forget to keep a smile on your face. Actively look for opportunities to network with everyone.
Networking with people will help you identify your office best friend (and who you should avoid). Introducing yourself will help you to get your name out there and make an excellent first impression.
But, be careful while networking on the first day at work. Try not to be a part of any gossip. And make sure to ignore some annoying colleagues for the sake of your own sanity!
5- Ask for Help
First day in office can be pretty confusing. You might get stuck somewhere, get confused about your work, or not understand the office rules.
Well, relax, this happens to everyone!
When you’re in doubt, don’t forget to ask for help. Asking for help or advice won’t make you a fool in front of your colleagues. In fact, it will show that you’re humble and open to learning from others.
Besides that, asking for help can be a great way to start a conversation and build new relationships.
6- Define Your Work Boundaries
The company doesn’t set work-life boundaries; it’s set by the people. When you join a new office, you constantly want to make a great impression. And to impress your employer, you might work for some extra hours on the first day. Now your boss and co-workers will expect you to stay late for work extra everyday.
So, it’s important to set work boundaries on your first day at work.
Setting expectations and boundaries early on will help you keep a balance between your work and personal life. And most importantly, with boundaries, you’ll live life stress-free.
7- Be positive and Friendly
It’s possible that you had different expectations about your new office. Maybe you won’t like your co-workers on the first day. But, try not to criticize your new colleagues or workplace. Remember that people like to be friends with positive people.
And your first impression depends on your attitude. So, be friendly and show excitement at work. And welcome new opportunities with a smile on your face.
Let your employers know that you’re happy to work at your new office. Besides that, a little goodwill will take you far at any place. Also, you should ignore these annoying habits of your colleagues.
8- Stay Calm
The pressure to perform well on your first day can be exhausting. Also, it’s difficult to get used to in a new workplace.
But being stressed at work won’t help you much. You should remember that it’s okay to make mistakes. And, staying calm will help you to give your best at work.
So don’t forget to take deep breaths and focus on your work. If you make any mistake, remember there’s always a tomorrow.
Wrapping it Up
This might sound a cliche, but try to be yourself on the first day in your office. You’ll have to catch up with a lot of new people, handle new responsibilities. Yep, it will be overwhelming on your first day.
But, don’t die under pressure or try too hard to impress others. Don’t forget that your employer has already selected you.
So, be confident, friendly, and humble at your new workplace. After all, you just started a new chapter in your life, right?
