Starting a new job can be stressful – there’s a bunch of new people to meet, lots to learn and countless new adjustments. We have all the tips and tricks you need to help you get a head start and make a good first impression on the big day!
Plan Ahead
Is your start date approaching? Time to start planning ahead. Don’t hesitate to ask questions to the hiring manager prior to your start date. This will show that you are proactive and organized. It will also eliminate feelings of uncertainty and ease some of those first day jitters.
Practice Your Commute
If you have a commute to the office, consider doing a practice commute prior to your start date. This is a great way to ensure that you show up on time and know what to expect the day of. It will also allow you to determine the best time to leave in the morning and the most efficient way to get there.
Know the Dress Code
Determine the dress code ahead of time to avoid over or underdressing. Think back to how the hiring managers dressed during the interview process. If you aren’t certain – ask! Take your preparation a step further by picking out your first day outfit in advance, that way you have one less thing to think about on the morning of the big day!
Have a Positive Attitude
A positive attitude goes a long way. It will help you make a great first impression and will show that you are excited and grateful for the opportunity. It will also help you feel more confident!
Connect With Your Coworkers
During the first couple weeks, it is important to put yourself out there and establish relationships with the people in your department. Building a rapport with your coworkers will ease some of that new-job anxiety and ensure that you have a smooth transition into the work environment.
Consistently Show up Eager to Learn
Be sure to always show up eager to learn, especially during the training process. You will make a good impression if you show your curiosity and desire for understanding. It will also make your training more enjoyable for everyone!
Communicate Your Learning Style
It is a good idea to communicate your learning style to whoever is training you. Whether that means you learn best from taking notes, shadowing, watching, pictures etc. This will help them, help you! It will also help facilitate the training process for everyone.
Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help
All jobs have learning curves, and no one will expect you to know everything right away. If you are unsure of something and have done everything you could to try and figure it out, don’t hesitate to ask for help! Asking questions is just a part of the learning process – don’t fight it.
Set Mini Goals for Yourself
During training, setting small goals for yourself is a good way to hold yourself accountable and get ramped up as fast as possible. Once you master the small things you will be on the right track to tackle the big things! You will have a sense of pride when you are able to accomplish them.
Don’t be Too Hard on Yourself
Remember, you are your worst critic – minor road bumps at a new job are perfectly natural and expected. All new jobs have growing pains and it is okay to make mistakes in the beginning – don’t beat yourself up for it. Instead, just see every mistake as a learning opportunity.
YOU GOT THIS!
