You perfected your resume, wrote a great cover letter, spent days applying to job descriptions. Most importantly, you nailed the interview process and got the offer you have been waiting for! Now, the time has arrived. It is your first day at work. First day of a new job can be stressful because everybody wants to leave a good impression on their new coworkers. Therefore, a preparation for this day is a must.
You never know what to expect on your first day of work. It depends on the company, but usually you can expect a company orientation. You will probably meet with your managers, with your team mates, and with other people who are going to work with you. You’ll probably get a computer and get oriented to the company. The key point when you meet with your coworkers is asking questions. Show them that you are eager to learn and you are curious about your new position.
On the first day of work, I recommend going dressed up in a suit because you never know what to expect. Even if the dress code is casual, you should still go there dressed up at least in business casual if you think wearing a suit will be too much. Remember it’s always better to be dressed up than dressed down. Also, leave the house timely because you don’t want to get stuck in rush hour traffic and arrive late to the office. If you can, try to be at the office at least 15 minutes early.
Some companies have an onboarding process to help new hires get adapted to the company more easily. This is a process in which a company makes you feel welcome to the company. The onboarding process can include being issued with a company computer, meeting with people that you are going to work with, doing training related to the company’s culture, learning where the cafeteria is, and learning about the company’s facilities. However, not every company has an onboarding process. Smaller companies, especially, do not have this process. Usually, big and midsize companies have an onboarding process, but every company tries its best to make you feel welcome and to onboard you to your new position so you can be productive as early as you can. During this process, relax and always smile. Don’t be shy and introduce yourself to others. Remember if you show others that you are friendly and approachable, you can gain their trust. As a result, you can fit in and make yourself as well as others more comfortable.
