Starting a new job comes with a lot of excitement but just as much pressure. New environment, new people, new responsibilities. Theyโre confident enough in you to give you a shot so thereโs absolutely nothing to worry about, but that wonโt stop your mind trying to think of ways to impress. Well, donโt over-analyse it because weโve come up with our top tips for putting your right foot forward and striding confidently into your first day.
Scrub up
Itโs easy to overthink a first impression, but just keep calm. Remember, itโs always better to overdress than underdress, so dress to impress. If you look like your grandparents wouldnโt approve, fix that. Be polite, take notes and smile.
Listen
Your new colleagues will probably have plenty of questions to ask you, but donโt talk about yourself all day. Ask questions, listen and learn about the inner workings of the office. Where are the facilities, what gets filed where and what office politics do you need to know? This time is a valuable learning opportunity so keep your notebook nearby.
Get pumped
Those office doors represent a million possibilities on your first day, but face the unknown head-on instead of fearing it. From the moment you wake up, play music that will get you in the right mindset, be that your workout playlist, your confidence playlist or even a playlist that chills you out. We all have those playlists, so whatever prepares you, play it loud in the shower, down the street and in transit. Walk through those doors ready to take on the world.
Donโt take sides
It can be hard to not get involved with office gossip and in your first few days plenty of new colleagues will be eager to fill you in on everything happening behind the scenes. Thereโs nothing wrong with you listening, but keep it cool and donโt let it get to you. Taking sides could prove a mistake if you start making controversial stances before youโve had your probation review.
Once youโre out of probation, youโll probably realise itโs the same as all other office drama anyway and it doesnโt really matter.
Youโre hired
Donโt forget, you are already hired. Your bosses have faith in you that, next to every other recruit, you were the perfect fit for the role. If you ever feel like youโre the wrong person for the job or donโt deserve to be there, always remember that you didnโt accidentally fall into this, you were chosen by professionals looking for you.
What advice would you give to those starting a new job? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn.
