People tend to judge a person by their first impression of that person. So the first day at work is significant to leave a better impression on your colleagues.
Generally, on the first day of work, you are nervous and excited at the same time. As this day is very important for you, instead of being anxious, you should give your best.
Here are a few points which will help you to be distinct at work and leave an ever-lasting impression on the first day.
- Work apparels
What you wear on your first day at work matters a lot. It is the first thing people will observe about you and also people will think about your personality by looking at the type of clothes you wear.
Before joining, confirm with your firm what type of clothing they prefer, it can be professional or casual. As every company has a different kind of dress code, asking beforehand makes it easier for you because you don’t want to be too flashy or too casual on your first day.
- Travel to work
You don’t want to be late on your first day and leave a bad impression. So, it’s better to check beforehand the type of route you should take and how much time will it take for you to reach your office. Remember to leave early by 15 minutes to avoid any sudden complications. Always use Google Maps for live updates on your travel route and try to leave accordingly. Plan your commute in such a way that you can reach on time and it never hurts to reach early also. If your company provides you with an option for carpooling then it will be a nice way to know some of your colleagues beforehand
- Compose an introduction
As not everyone knows about you and they will be eager to know about you and your achievements or you will be meeting higher-ups from your office then it is in your best interest to prepare an introduction about yourself beforehand. It should include everything that will help everyone in knowing you, your skills, and your past achievements.
Remember to practice it in advance and keep it brief, you don’t want to bore your new colleagues.
- Bring key documents
Remember to bring all your documents on your first day, as most of the time these documents aren’t submitted or asked by the company on the day you sign your Contract. Make a file that will consist of all your original documents, make a few photocopies of these documents, and bring some passport-size photographs.
Also, it is better to ask the company’s HR about the type of documents you are required to bring, as it will help you in arranging all of them beforehand and lessen your anxiety.
- Be approachable and make links
Having a determined, approachable, and friendly appearance carries lots of weight and is the right way to start your first day. Try interacting with your fellow workers, and ask for information about their role in the company and what type of work they do. Don’t indulge in asking or sharing personal information. Keep a simple smile that comes by itself, not a forced one, and be confident. Be the one to find the appropriate time to start a conversation.
- Know about the company
Knowing about your company beforehand doesn’t hurt. Do a little research, and learn about their recent achievements. This will help you in striking a conversation, as you will have a topic of common interest. It will show that you are very committed to knowing about your company and working there.
- Be organized
During your first day, you will come in contact with multiple people from your team or other teams. Being organized on the first day helps you a lot.
Make sure that you take notes of relevant information, and make a to-do list to not get confused. As you are new here, you will be undergoing some training sessions, show your interest and be diligent in your approach.
There are many ways to note down important stuff either you can write it down in a notebook or use different apps available.
- Don’t be mindful of taking breaks
You don’t want to be tired on your first day. It is completely fine to take some rest in the form of having a coffee or lunch break as this will also give you some time to know your colleagues outside of the Work Environment. But remember to ask the company’s HR about break time policies and duration. Don’t take extended breaks right off the bat. Use this time to organize your thoughts which will help you in lowering your anxiousness.
- Try hard but not too hard
We know it is your first day and you want to make a fine impression by showing your eagerness. But remember there is no need to show that much enthusiasm in front of your colleagues. As it is your first day, it will only give a wrong impression.
- Don’t keep your phone on sound mode
I think this doesn’t need any introduction, as it is very simple. First of all, it is not courteous to keep your phone on sound mode and it is very annoying if your phone keeps on ringing when you are having a conversation or introducing yourself. So remember to keep your phone on silent. And try to give all your replies during your break time.
I hope this information will help you in easing and preparing you for your first day. Remember, just be confident and enthusiastic and most importantly be yourself, don’t pretend to be a person that you are not.