If you’re getting ready to start a new job, it’s important to do your research before your first day. Review the people you’ll be working with, the company culture and your contract. Even if you’ve already been interviewing, it may be helpful to re-read all your notes and check out sites like Glassdoor for reviews from other employees.
You should also consider your commute – try driving the route the day before your start date so you can get a feel for traffic patterns and parking locations. Your attire will make a strong first impression as well, so make sure it’s professional and fits the workplace environment. It’s also a good idea to bring a notebook and pen or pencil to take notes during the first few weeks – you’ll be learning a lot!
During the interview process, it’s important to be prepared for questions about your past experience and transferable skills. Taking the time to reflect on your strengths before the interview can help you answer these questions in an articulate and confident manner. Having a clear idea of what you want to achieve in the new role can also be useful. Write down your goals so you have a focussed plan to work from for the coming months and don’t forget to include a deadline.
Your first week in a new job is a critical period for you to establish your professional reputation. It’s a great opportunity to show your commitment to the organization and its mission, but it’s also important to be honest with your supervisor about your abilities. If you don’t think you can do the job, say so right away – your supervisor will appreciate that you’re being pragmatic and that you have a strong interest in owning your career.
It’s also important to be respectful and thoughtful towards your coworkers in the early days of your new role – you’ll be spending a lot of time with them and will need to develop trust and respect from scratch. Make an effort to greet every person you meet, and be conscious of how your actions and words might impact those around you – a simple smile can go a long way!
Once you’ve settled in to your new role, it’s important to enjoy it! Take the time to engage with colleagues, and be genuinely interested in their work. Try to listen 90% of the time, and talk only 10% – you’ll learn a lot about your team, their work, and how it all fits together!