So, you decided to leave your job, wrote a cracking resume, made it through the face-to-face interviews, aced the medical and psychological evaluations, managed to resign from your role and are now at Gate 10, your first day in your new role with your new employer. Preparing for your first day is crucial, as this sets the tone for the rest of your tenure there. Remember, you still have your (usually) 6-month probation to get through….You want to make a positive impression and start off on the right foot.
Here are our 9 steps to help you prepare and make the most of your first day:
1. Review Your Job Description: The night before you go in for your first day, revisit the job description you were given during the interview to ensure that you understand this and the responsibilities and expectations associated with your new dream role. This will help you set clear goals and priorities for your first day and all those following this day.
2. Dress Appropriately: Dress professionally based on the company’s dress code. If unsure, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Dressing appropriately shows respect for the company culture and demonstrates that you take your new role seriously.
3. Prepare Your Personal Documents: Bring any necessary identification, employment contracts, or other paperwork the employer requests. This will ensure a smooth onboarding process. You will be required to provide your bank details, superannuation details, next of kin details etc, as a minimum. Having these details ready for your first day to power through this is helpful, and get on with what you came here for your dream job!
4. Get a Good Night’s Sleep: As rudimentary as it sounds, ensuring you have a good night’s rest before your first day will help you stay focused and attentive throughout the day.
5. Plan Your Commute: If you have not been to your work location yet during the interview process, it would be worth determining the best route to your workplace and estimating how long it will take, factoring in possible traffic or public transportation delays. Aim to arrive at least 10-15 minutes earlier than requested to demonstrate punctuality and eagerness.
6. Bring a Notepad, pen and / or digital writing possibility: During your first day, you will be faced with a lot of new impressions, new names of people, and many questions associated with processes and people. Be prepared to take notes during these meetings, training sessions or when given important information for future reference.
7. Be Open and Approachable: Smile, maintain a positive attitude, and be open to meeting new colleagues. Introduce yourself, shake hands (if appropriate), and engage in conversations. Building relationships from the start can help you establish a supportive network down the track.
8. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about your role, responsibilities, or any other information that may not be clear to you.
9. Observe and Listen: Pay attention to your surroundings, observe workplace dynamics, and listen actively during meetings or conversations. This will help you understand the company culture and expectations.
Remember, the first day at a new job is an opportunity to make a strong impression, learn, and build relationships. Stay positive, be proactive, and approach the day with enthusiasm.
Given the journey you have been on to get here, your dream job, Gate 9 should again be a formality to unlock. There is really only one gate left. Gate 10 – the end of your probation period!
Email: enquiries@ArcTree.com.au
