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Your First Day at Work

Hi,

I’m Alix and it’s my mission to help as many as possible work in jobs that meet their passion and purpose, allowing them to reach their full potential, thereby making them happy and fulfilled adults. Providing support and hand holding where they may not have any.

A ‘virtual mentor’ if you like…

Today we’re looking at things you can consider when starting either your first job, or a new job, so, grab a drink and cake (I love cake!) and let’s go…

Your first day in a new job can be a unique blend of excitement, nerves, and a fresh opportunity.

It’s the moment where impressions are formed, expectations are set, and your sense of belonging begins to take shape. While you can’t control everything about that first day, you can set yourself up for confidence and success by focusing on a few key areas.

So, let’s take a look at what you can think about as you walk into a new workplace for the very first time.

Prepare more than you think you need to…

Your preparations start long before you arrive.

Make sure you know the basics:

Where you’re going

What time you need to be there

Any documents you need to bring, and

Your point of contact.

If you’ve been given onboarding information, read through it carefully the night before.

Lay out your clothes, pack your bag, and plan your commute with extra buffer time. Arriving early (but not excessively early) sends a subtle signal: you’re dependable and ready.

Approach the day with curiosity, not pressure…

It’s easy to see why many people can feel they need to prove themselves on day one.

In reality, the real win is absorbing as much as you can. You’re not expected to master your role immediately, but you are expected to pay attention.

Think of your first day as a learning sprint:

How does communication flow?

What tools does the team rely on?

What norms or unwritten rules seem to guide behaviour?

How are your new colleagues dressed?

Your job isn’t to impress with expertise - it’s to show willingness, humility, and curiosity.

Observe the culture (the real culture) …

Workplaces have two cultures: the official one shown to customers and clients but then there’s the lived one. Your first day is the perfect window into how things actually operate.

Notice:

How colleagues speak to each other

Whether meetings start on time

How decisions are made

What people seem stressed or relaxed about

Whether collaboration is the default or the exception

These subtle signals will help you integrate much faster than memorising any handbook.

Make an effort with people - even if you're an introvert…

Good relationships with colleagues are one of the strongest ways to get job satisfaction.

Introduce yourself and smile, it makes you approachable. You don’t have to be extroverted; you just have to be warm.

And always remember that a smile transcend age, gender, race and fashion sense.

There’re some practical things you can do as well:

Learn at least three names and use them – using a name when responding to a question or comment can help you remember them

Ask colleagues how long they’ve been with the company

Join communal spaces rather than eating alone - share a coffee

Ask questions about others’ roles

Simple, low-pressure conversations go a long way in building early trust.

Clarify expectations early…

One of the biggest sources of workplace stress comes from mismatched expectations. If you have an opportunity to meet your manager on day one, ask to have a chat and use it to clarify the basics:

What does success look like in the first week, month, and quarter?

Are there priorities you should begin with?

What communication style does your manager prefer?

How hands-on or hands-off will they be?

These conversations remove ambiguity and help you focus on what truly matters, while showing your keenness to get to grips with the job.

Understand your tools and workflows…

You may receive access to various systems, platforms, or tools. This can feel overwhelming, but the first day is the safest time to ask ‘basic’ questions.

It’s also the time to flag if you’re missing equipment - better to sort out early rather than when deadlines loom.

Make sure to write down:

Login details

Processes you need to follow

Who handles what (HR, IT, admin, etc.)

Any glossary terms that come up

Your future self will thank you.

Take notes - lots of them…

You may think you’ll remember names, processes, or instructions - but you won’t. Not on day one. Take notes constantly. It shows you care and helps you build a reliable foundation.

Some people like to use a dedicated ‘week one’ notebook. Others prefer digital notes – though be careful if making notes on your phone in case it’s misconstrued.

Whatever your style, capturing details is a superpower.

Pace yourself and manage your energy…

Your first day can be mentally exhausting. It may be that you didn’t sleep much the night before in anticipation.

It’s not a test of endurance.

New environments also require more cognitive effort because nothing is familiar. So make a promise to be kind to yourself. Take breaks when offered. Drink water and eat lunch.

Remember: the goal isn’t to do everything; it’s to start everything well.

Accept that there could be awkward moments…

You might forget someone’s name, walk in the wrong direction, or use the wrong door. Everyone’s done it, even your new manager.

Don’t let small slip-ups throw your confidence - they’re not only normal, they’re expected.

A bit of humour and grace can help these moments pass quickly.

Reflect at the end of the day…

Once you’re home, take time out to reflect:

What excited you?

What confused you?

Who seemed important for you to get to know?

What do you want to follow up on tomorrow?

Reflection accelerates integration.

It also gives you a sense of progress, which boosts motivation and that all important confidence.t

Final thoughts…

Your first day at work is less about performing and more about positioning.

By preparing thoughtfully, observing carefully, and engaging openly with others, you lay the groundwork for success long beyond that initial day. Treat it as the beginning of a long-term investment in your growth, your relationships, and your professional identity.

Lastly, I wanted to both wish you luck and say that I know success is within your grasp!