First Day on the New Job

True to the rumours, starting a new job ranks in the ‘Top 3 Most Stressful Things To Do' contest. So it's perfectly normal to have a few first day jitters. Generally speaking first impressions do actually last. Important things to look out for and to pay special attention to before and during your first day of your new job include your behaviour, verbal and non verbal communication, your dress sense and your attitude.

Jobs.co.za have complied an easy to use 'First Day On The Job Checklist' to help you integrate into your new job starting from day one.

First Day Dress Sense:

During your job interview you would have noted the company's general dress style and personality by looking at your interviewer, the receptionist and anyone else you met at this time. Try to mimic this style in your personal wardrobe so that you don't stick out like a sore thumb on your first day. Try to adapt to (or at least conform to) the company's culture as far as possible without losing your own personal uniqueness.. People feel threatened by change. So the more smoothly you attempt to integrate into the current culture of the company and its people, the more comfortable you will feel.

Be Polite:

From the moment you walk in the front door on the first day of your new job you should maintain a consistent demeanour of respect.. Be courteous and obliging to each member of staff you meet and don't hesitate to introduce yourself when others have forgotten to do so.

Verbal and Non Verbal Communication:

Be sure to convey the same message verbally and non-verbally on your first day. Although sometimes our nerves get the better of us when starting a new job, it's hugely important to remember that just as much as you communicate with your mouth, so you communicate with your body. A simple stance of crossed arms and wandering eyes, instinctually may feel comfortable for you on your first day (to protect yourself from the threatening situation), but this stance is actually a result of your adrenal gland and actually comes across to observers as though you are closed off, aggressive and untrustworthy. Always be aware of the way in which you are communicating to others and what message you are sending to them.

Remembering Names from Day One:

The best way to remember the names of colleagues you meet on your first day is with a plan. Draw a simple plan of the floor area where you sit. As you meet your new colleagues make a mark on your office plan of where it is they sit. As you meet more and more people simply add to your map. By associating a person with the area in which they sit will help you to remember their names and the role that they play in the company from your very first day on the job.

Start Your First Day with A Positive Attitude:

Never speak negatively about your previous employment situation or work colleagues. By doing so, although you may feel this is a good ice breaker to use to bond with your new colleagues on your first day, this may work against you. You may end up portraying yourself as being a gossip and open to office politics. Rather remain positive about your new situation and role in the company. The more you express your allegiance on the first day, the better foundation you are laying for building solid relationships within your new team.

Know Your Role From The Start:

Spend some time with your manager or supervisor. As it is the first day on the job he/she is bound to have set some time aside for you. During this time familiarise yourself with the company's policies and procedures as well as your specific roles and responsibilities vital to your contribution to the company. Clear up any discrepancies with your duties now as well as ask for further clarification where you are unsure of any detail. The success of your position is reliant on the fact that you know what is expected of you and that your direct managers are aware of your capabilities from the very start.

By sticking to, or rather ticking through this 'First Day on the Job Checklist' there is no reason for panic at the start of your new job. Remember that you have already got the job, which means that your new employers have already seen that special something in you that they wanted you to fill by accepting the position.

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