GET A JOB: The First Day Jitters

Here are 8 tips so you can hit the ground running.

by Sophia L. Marshall, MHR


Your first day is quickly approaching and you aren’t quite sure what to expect and how to conduct yourself. Try the following advice for first day success.

Areas To Clarify Prior To Your First Day

• Salary: Know how much you are going to be paid, and ensure that it is a fair amount for what you are being asked to do. If you need help with salary research, check out www.salary.com or www.salaryexpert.com. Both Web sites offer a free salary report. All you have to do is enter your level of education, job title and zip code. 
• Where to report: While this may seem like common knowledge to some, it isn’t always the case. On the first day of work, many companies actually request for you to go directly to the human resources office to fill out or pick up additional paperwork. This location may be in the same building or an entirely different building from where you’ll be working. Save yourself time by asking where you should report on your first day.
• Who to report to: Your first day may involve meeting with someone who will guide you to your workstation. This person will probably come and check on you during the day to ensure that you are adjusting well.   
• Hours of employment: Remember to inquire about what time the day begins and ends. On your first day, it may also be wise to ask about the time limit for lunches and breaks. Some companies offer 30 minute lunches while others may offer an hour.

Tips To Help During Your First Day

• Arrive Early: Be sure that you have planned accordingly for the traffic and any other transportation issues so that you arrive a few minutes early.
• Pay attention to company culture: As the military has a culture, so do other companies. Typically those working in manufacturing may tend to wear jeans while those who work in the banking industry may wear more conservative styles such as suits and separates. Be aware of this and try to adapt your wardrobe according to what you observe in the workplace on your first day.
• Ask Questions: If you are unsure about a process or procedure, be sure to ask questions about it. You never want to assume because there may already be a specific policy or procedure that should be followed. Asking questions shows that you are inquisitive and are ready to learn all about your new position. 
• Be friendly and neutral: Try to speak with everyone and get to know your colleagues. No matter what you do, the first day is always the most difficult. But, in order to fit in as a new team player, it is best to appear open and smile. It is hard to know how your first day will go but, you can take some of the uncertainty and anxiety out of it by planning ahead. with the tips mentioned in this article. Best of luck.