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The first day
Starting a new job can often make you feel nervous yet excited at the same time. You are entering the unknown and you will need to learn new names and faces, along with the rules that you need to follow. The impression that you make during your first few days will have a lasting effect on how you are perceived by your employer. It is important on your first day that you:
- have a positive attitude
- try to remember people's names and faces
- smile and be friendly
- be polite
- introduce yourself
- ask questions
- make notes
Make a good impression
During the first few days and weeks you will need to make a good impression so it is important that you:
- arrive to work early - plan your route carefully and think about the congestion and hold-ups that you may encounter. If you are late, don’t panic, apologise and explain the reason to your supervisor or line manager
- dress like others around you - think about the clothing people were wearing at your interview and try to match the style. If in doubt it is better to dress on the smart side
- turn off your phone - chatting to your friends at work will not make a good impression.
Plan your journey…
Health and safety policy
Everyone is entitled to work in an environment where risks to their health and safety are properly managed. This includes where you work, how you work and the equipment you use. If a company employs 5 or more staff, it must have a Health & Safety policy statement for employees to refer too. Ensure you read this policy on your first day or during your induction.
Make notes
Over your first few days you will take in a lot of information so it is important that you make notes. This will help you remember and prevent you from asking the same questions twice. Ask if you do not know something or don’t fully understand an instruction.
What should I know by the end of the day?
By the end of your first day make sure you know the following:
- where the toilets are located
- the names of your direct colleagues
- contact number(s) for your supervisor or line manager
- what is expected of you
Useful websites
Young Workers
Information and advice for that all important first day at work.
Trade Unions Congress
Information on making sure you are safe at work and understand what you should and shouldn't be asked to do.
Advice Guide: employment factsheets
The Citizens Advice Bureau employment factsheets have information on everything from maternity rights, holiday pay and sick pay to working hours and discrimination.
Last updated: 09/02/11
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