No matter what your job is, the first day of the job can be an anxious experience.
But if you're properly prepared, you can morph the day into an entirely new experience which can become a starting point of a long, enriching career.
Here are some tips:
First Impressions Do Matter
It may be a cliché but it does hold some weight. First impression on the very first day of the job may help in establishing your overall image. Wear clothes that are appropriate for the workplace. But then, they should not make you unhappy. You would need to strike a balance. Maintain a positive body language and be well-groomed.
Some Background Research
You shouldn't feel that you have landed on a distant planet in the Milky Way. Make sure that you have a fair deal of knowledge about your employer. Read up about the company beforehand. See, if you can find some general information about the bosses and other employees. Company's official website or a Wikipedia entry can be helpful.
Be Confident
You might be a rookie but don't let others take you for granted. Therefore, be confident. Take pride in the fact that they liked you enough and that's why you're there. Walk around with confidence. It will help you enter into a comfort zone and will help you inch towards success. And remember that the line between being confident and over-confident is often thin and blurred.
Formalities are important
No matter how much you hate them, you can't run away from them. Be prepared to complete the joining formalities. The process can be time consuming but it's for your own good. Make sure that you carry all the required documents with you: original (keep the original documents safe) and xerox copies and also carry adequate number of photographs. Be patient, while completing the formalities (filling forms, opening bank account etc.) with the HR.
Introduction and Meeting Colleagues
When your immediate boss shows you around and makes you meet other people, be very forthcoming. Smile, (not that glued or plastic smile) when you shake hands with people and look into their eyes while doing that. Your disposition should be pleasing. This would help you make friends on the very first day. If you're asked to introduce yourself to a group, then keep the introduction short and simple. While interacting, make sure that you're not the only one talking. Give others a chance as well.
Find out the Ground Rules
Chances are that your hiring manager would have already told you about them at the time of your selection. If not, quickly find out about office timings, office attire, break timings, leave policy, salary break-up, etc. Also find out about the rules and regulations followed in the organisation.
Get Familiar with the Work
After all the greetings have been exchanged and formalities completed, it's time to find out about the work you need to do. Be prompt and proactive in this. Don't wait for the second day. Quickly locate your work station. And proactively discuss your job responsibilities with your immediate manager and get going.
Get a Guru
Keep an eye out for a manager you think can help you learn and grow the right way. Look for a mentor in him. This will be very beneficial. You'll have someone to run ideas past to and you can also seek help in the times of crisis. (MensXP.com)
Also read: How to be Happy at the Office and Job Hunting Mistakes (And how to Avoid them)
