Congratulations on your new job journey! Your dedication and hard work have led you to this well-deserved accomplishment. Are you ready to step into this exciting chapter filled with new faces, environments, and responsibilities? In preparation for your journey to success, we’ve put together these tips to help you navigate smoothly through your first few days.
Why the first week of a new job is so important
The first week of a new job is crucial. It sets the tone for your entire professional experience, providing an opportunity to make a positive impression on your colleagues. Attention, this is your only chance to make a first impression, and the impact of it can last a lifetime. Besides, you will be familiar with the company culture, establish relationships, and gain insights into your role and responsibilities during the first week. The first week is also a valuable time to learn and adapt, laying the foundations for a fulfilling and productive tenure.
What to do before you start a new job?
First, research your company. Check their social media posts to familiarize yourself with the company’s culture, recent updates, and appropriate attire. Review your job description and any materials provided during the hiring process to gain a clear understanding of your role. Look up your future colleagues on LinkedIn and establish initial connections.
Then don’t forget to plan and test your daily commute to ensure punctuality during your first week. Gather necessary documentation, such as a copy of ID and bank details, and reach out to HR for any outstanding paperwork or queries. Lastly, have a good sleep before your first day to foster a positive mindset and optimal performance.
First day of work
Embrace the mix of excitement and nerves on your first day! Be yourself—dress appropriately, plan your departure, arrive on time, step into the company with a confident smile, introduce yourself warmly, and get ready to meet your new colleagues and explore your new office. It’s a journey of both excitement and a bit of butterflies but trust yourself—you’ve got this!
Things to do during your first week
Now that you are ready to set foot at your new job, here are 4 key tips to help you make a smooth transition and get the most out of your first few days.
1. Introduce yourself to everyone
Go beyond describing what you do; share the ‘why’ behind your choices, express your passion for the job or company, and leave a memorable impression.
2. Ask questions and take notes
Don’t hesitate to ask questions, especially if you are remote. Take notes on every detail you learn, even the seemingly straightforward ones, as your mind processes a lot during this week, ensuring you won’t need to repeat questions.
3. Meet with your manager and set expectations
Work with your manager to define short-term goals and expectations for the first few months. This provides a roadmap for success.
4. Get access to and study company tools
Each company uses specific software for efficient operations. In your first week, ensure that you gain access to and become familiar with these tools. This will save time and help you adapt to your work.
Weiqi Qian
Marketing and PR Intern and WTS Energy
“I remember feeling nervous on my first day of work. The metro was delayed, and I was worried about being late, but fortunately, I arrived on time. During the first week, I was overwhelmed with information, but having prior knowledge of the company and our friendly colleagues helped me a lot.”
Things you shouldn’t do during your first week
Hang in there. Now that you know what to do during your first week, it is also important to avoid some common mistakes and create a positive impression by refraining from these actions.
1. Skip orientation
Although orientation sessions may seem boring or unnecessary, attending them can help you get a quick and comprehensive understanding of the company. Skipping orientation may leave you uninformed.
Pierina Fiestas
Marketing and PR Coordinator and WTS Energy
“Before my first day, I made sure to look at all the documentation that was sent to me. Some of it included the colleagues I was going to be in contact with. This really helped me to correctly identify them during my first week and made the transition swifter”
2. Office gossip
Making a positive impression on your colleagues during the first week is essential. Therefore, avoid being labelled a gossiper or participating in negative discussions. This reputation is difficult to shake off, especially if it forms in your first week.
3. Avoid social interaction
Your colleagues are most interested in you during the first week, and you may receive a lot of lunch invitations. Engage with colleagues and build relationships from the start. Don’t isolate yourself.
4. Compare everything to your last job
Avoid comparing your previous job and expressing preferences. Instead, embrace this new opportunity to shine and move forward.
Now, enter into your new position confidently and seamlessly! Apply to your new job with WTS Energy here.
