You’ve accepted a job offer, handed your notice in and are excited – and maybe slightly nervous – to start your new job. Below are some top tips to combat any first day nerves and ensure everything goes smoothly when starting a new job.
Be organised
Create a list of things you may need. This could be anything from stationery to clothes for your first day. When you have put a list together, you can work through this the week before. This will give you chance to grab anything you may have forgotten! If you are commuting to work, you should research your commute and think about how you will get there and how long it may take; if you’re driving, do you have fuel in your car? All these small things could take some time if they are left until the last minute.
Arrive early
First impressions are important! Your first day is your chance to show your colleagues what can be expected of you. Giving yourself extra time before your day starts also allows you to explore the office, chat with co-workers and ensure the day runs as smoothly as possible.
Get to know your co-workers
Introduce yourself to your colleagues. Reaching out and making effort with your co-workers goes a long way. When you create relationships at work, it makes your days more enjoyable, and you could make life-long friends. As well as this, it can give you an idea of what abilities and skills are valued by your employer.
Ask questions
Failing to ask questions may stop you from clarifying your employers and colleagues’ expectations. Asking questions allows you to discover new things. This could be about your new role, about your new workplace or your new colleagues. These are all great benefits of starting a new role, it allows you to understand people better, and ultimately, be better at your job! So, don’t be afraid to ask questions, it shows you are being pro-active.
Have a positive attitude
Maintaining a positive attitude at work allows you to push yourself to focus on your tasks and meet your professional goals. Although it’s easier said than done, having a positive attitude increases productivity, drives success, reduces stress, boosts your creativity, and improves time-management.
Ask for feedback
Once you start, ask for feedback on your performance from your manager or supervisor. This shows that you are keen to make a good impression and care about your job, self-improvement, and career development. If you receive constructive criticism, respond positively and act on it.
Update your LinkedIn Profile
Once you have started your new job, update your LinkedIn profile as soon as you can. If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile create one. It will allow you to stay connected with colleagues (old and new), professionals in your sector and engage with your new company’s activity on the social media platform. Doing so will show your commitment to your new employer.
Don’t take too much time off when you start a new job
The first months of a new job are crucial for getting up to speed and learning new tasks, systems, and procedures at the firm. So, be mindful of the amount of time you take off work. Make sure you look after yourself, eat healthily and stay active, to increase your chances of avoiding periods of sick leave. If you have a pre-booked holiday, make sure you inform your employer before you start your new job.
If you are looking for a new job we are here to help you find the perfect job opportunity in the Legal, HR, Finance and Accountancy sectors. Get in touch today for a confidential discussion about job opportunities available and your career.
Written by Lucy Evans, Legal Resourcing Consultant for Yorkshire and the North East.
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