Do’s and Don’ts Your First Day on the Job
By Alex Batty, MHI Marketing Communications Coordinator |@mhi_alex
Congratulations! You’re employed and can begin to pay for things… like bills. But it’s still great! However, if this is your first job (or even your 100th), the first day on the job can be nerve-wracking. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help that first day go more smoothly.
Do be on time
This one’s pretty common sense, but it’s so important. Make sure you map out your route before hand. It’s even a good idea to drive/ride it before your first day during rush hour so that you know how long it will actually take. On your first day, if you’re on time, you’re late.
Do get to the point
This one’s targeted toward those fresh out of school headed into their first job. While school trains you to have lengthy, analytic discussions, these don’t often fit into the pace of the business world. Co-workers are more likely to be focused on results and getting the job done, so the more efficiently you can get to your point, the better everyone’s day goes.
Do ask questions
Be humble and take time to listen. No one expects you to know everything the first day on the job, so relax and ask for help when you need it. It’s better to get the help before you’ve wasted time doing the task wrong. If you can’t figure something out, don’t ask right away. Circle to another task and compile a list of questions as you work. When you’re ‘done’ you can ask all the questions at once rather than bothering your supervisor every ten minutes.
Remember, though, to balance getting help when needed with not being needy or needing to be micromanaged.
Do bring a lunch
Every office has a different lunch culture. Some are eat at your desk while working, some a go out every day. The length of the lunch also varies from place to place, so it’s best to play it safe on that first day and pack something so you don’t get stuck with stale vending machine crackers. Fight the hunger and you’ll be more productive.
Don’t be overenthusiastic
Be excited, because you just got a new job – but not too excited. This is a two-edged sword. If you’re too enthusiastic at first, it can really be bothersome to new coworkers and can even feel threatening if you appear to be moving against company culture. It comes back to bite you again later if your hyperenthusiasm drops over time and your boss wonders why engagement is fading.
Don’t stress too much
You got a job! Celebrate that fact for a second and let the worry fade away. It’s all going to be new and that’s great! Take a deep breath and remember that you aren’t expected to get it all at once. Celebrate the new experiences and enjoy.
