Showing up for your first day at a new job prepared makes a significant difference. While most companies have onboarding programs that are designed to acclimate you to the environment and role, doing your part to get ready makes a position impression on your new manager and colleagues. Plus, taking ownership of your preparations can dramatically ease your transition into a new workplace, making the process less intimidating.
Fortunately, there are some simple steps that you can take that substantially increase your odds of thriving. Here are five things to do before your first day at your new job to ensure you’ll succeed.
Five Things to Do Before Your First Day at Your New Job:
1. Research the Company Further
While you likely researched the company during the hiring process, taking some extra time to learn more about it before your first day is wise. Review organizational charts to identify personnel in your department, and review their LinkedIn profiles to familiarize yourself with them. Look for videos or images that show the actual workplace, allowing you to get to know the environment a bit.
Also, explore the company’s products or services to see what it offers and the types of customers or clients it targets. If you have a chance, see what the company’s competitors bring to the table, as that can prove valuable.
By doing your research, you’re giving yourself a chance to familiarize yourself with the organization. Typically, that will make your first day feel less daunting, and it may lead to chances to demonstrate your passion for the opportunity if you get to discuss what you’ve learned.
2. Confirm Your Schedule (and Ask About Routines)
About two days before your first day, ask the manager to confirm your work schedule. Make sure you know your start and end times, at a minimum. Additionally, find out if breaks and lunches occur at specific times or if there’s flexibility.
After that, find out if any routines happen before or after traditional work hours. For example, in some workplaces, casually gathering around the coffee maker in the breakroom to chat might be the norm, even if it isn’t required. Finding out gives you a chance to integrate into these routines as quickly as possible, which is beneficial.
3. Have a Plan for Getting to Your New Job
When it’s your first day at a new job, being on time is a must. You need to arrive on-site with enough time to find parking, make your way to the building, and navigate any entry procedures, like checking in with a receptionist or another point of contact.
Ideally, you want to do a test run of your commute a few days before you’re scheduled to begin. Ideally, you want to plan a route and make the journey at the same time of day as you would when you’re working on the job. That allows you to see how traffic usually flows, making it easier to estimate your travel time accurately.
Additionally, have some backup routes available. By having an alternative path to follow, you can ensure that expected issues – like traffic caused by an accident – don’t make you late.
Before your first day, ask the hiring manager about parking procedures and general availability. Additionally, find out if you need to account for a lengthier check-in procedure since you’re a new hire, making it easier to account for the amount of time it’ll take to reach your new workplace.
Finally, add a buffer of about 10 minutes to your travel time on the first day, giving you further protection against the unexpected. If you’re too early to head inside right away, you can always wait in your car before heading into the building.
4. Ask About the Dress Code
In some cases, you’ll receive an employee handbook before your first day on the job, allowing you to learn about the dress code from it. However, if you haven’t received any documentation and you’re starting your new position in three days or less, reach out to the hiring manager. Let them know that you want to ensure you’re meeting company standards and ask for an overview of the dress code.
By using this approach, you’re showing that you’re excited about the opportunity. Plus, it’s a demonstration of diligence and attention to detail, both of which work in your favor. Finally, it allows you to avoid any issues relating to accidentally dressing inappropriately.
If there isn’t a formal dress code, ask the hiring manager to describe typical attire for the workplace generally. Alternatively, you can typically default to business casual in most environments, barring highly professional offices where more formal attire may be common. Also, aim for a relatively conservative outfit if you’re unsure about how to dress. Then, you can assess the workplace and adjust after your first day on the job.
5. Pack Anything You Need to Bring
While you likely won’t need to bring along many items on your first day, there are usually a few things you’ll want to have with you. Any identification required to complete new hire paperwork is a prime example. A pen and a notepad are also handy, ensuring you can take notes whenever needed.
It’s also wise to ask your new manager if there’s anything else you should bring along. You can also find out if there are places to store lunches if you plan to bring your own, which lets you know if you need anything like a cooler and icepack or if you can use an available fridge instead.
Are You Looking for a New Job? Burnett Specialists Can Help!
By partnering with Burnett Specialists, you can streamline your job search while gaining access to opportunities with leading employers. Plus, you’ll receive ample support from experienced recruiters, making it easier for you to find a right-fit job as fast as possible.
If you’re ready for a new opportunity and want to partner with a skilled recruiter, Burnett Specialists can help. Learn more about our open positions and see how our team can get your career moving today.
