Getting there took some effort and commitment; therefore, make it all count as you enjoy the new workplace environment. You can start by dressing your best. It might make you feel confident, and that new confidence might trickle to those around you. Also, consider planning your time so that you get to work early, having eaten a proper breakfast to avoid rush out for a snack during mid-morning hours.
Preserve and practice the qualities that got you to where you are in your career. Be positive, maintain eye contact, say hi to your fellow employees, and have a smile on your face. They are the same things that you leveraged during the interview, but this time, your objective is to make a lasting first impression with more people than in the interview; hence, being a bit nervous and on your guard is understandable. However, you will have enough time to adjust as you settle into your new work roles over the coming weeks.
Orion advise it would be best if you did not have high expectations regarding doing any real work on the first day, but this will change after being accustomed to how things are done. Nevertheless, give your very best in whatever you are asked to do, and remember to exercising the following:
1Be Courteous
It should be a standard behavior anyway, even though you must avoid rubbing shoulders with people the wrong way on the first day. Be polite and respectful at all times, making sure everyone you encounter, from the boss to the receptionist, has the same impression of you. Introduce yourself, more so if the manager did not do so to the rest of your new colleagues.
Also, do not shy away from asking for advice instead of shuffling your feet and looking lost because you do not know what to do or where to go. Such behavior makes you appear aloof or edgy. They can establish barriers that you do not want to start erection on your first day on the job.
2Go With The Flow
You might have some experience in your new work role, but do not assume it gives you the leeway to do what you did in your previous employment. You could have several transferable skills, but remember that every workplace has a way it does its things. Therefore, watch how they operate so that you fit in as smoothly as possible. Never uses statements such as “we did not do it this way in my last job.” Such remarks are bound to wind up your new boss and co-workers.
Take part in coffee breaks or any other office activity that presents the opportunity to get to know those around you at a personal level. They will be a bonding experience that can also let you understand the unwritten or unspoken rules of the office – from nipping outside for a smoke to answering personal mobile calls.
Most offices will not miss having a cynic; this is an individual you should identify. It is the kind of person that will be quick to let you know the dump of a place you have joined, yet they have worked there for nearly twenty years. However, be cautious to the cynic as with everyone that tries to be friendly. Use it as a means of getting to know more about them and their role in office politics. Avoid being too close to one person or group because you could alienate yourself from the others.
3Be Positive
Get any suggestions that talk down your last job or former employer to yourself. Most importantly, exercise discretion regarding former employers because you never know if your new boss or co-workers are related to someone from your old job. Moreover, it will not give a good impression of you.
Sieve your words before committing to saying anything. But your nervousness on the first day at your new job will heighten your apprehensiveness and eagerness to please in equal measure. Therefore, tame your responses and actions through thoughtful and cautious conduct instead of being rash and impulsive.
4Show A Willingness
While being the one who volunteers can be beneficial, press the brakes on this and allow yourself first to get the hang of the office culture and politics. But you can offer to do a coffee run or change the water bottle on the dispenser. Also, be the last out for lunch, first back, and last out after work during your early weeks on the job. It will show your boss and colleagues you mean business and are committed to becoming part of the team.
