Starting a new job? Top 5 tips to banish those first day jitters

First of all congratulations! Starting a new job is an exciting time but it can also be a little scary too. You may have come from another similar role, or perhaps this is your first role after school or university.

Whatever the situation, everyone suffers from those first day nerves, but there is no need to worry. Remember, your new employer thinks you are the best fit for this role, and will be very excited for you to get started – so be confident!

Every company is different, and have their own ways of doing things. Some businesses will have a detailed and structured induction programme for you to follow for your first day or even your first week. Other companies may be a little less formal to start with and give you one task or project at a time.

Either way, giving the right impression on your first day is very important. Start your new role the right way with our top tips!

1. Be organised and prepare for your first day

Start your first day assertively by doing as much preparation as you did for your interview. Refresh your memory by revisiting your research about the company ahead of your start date. Look at their website, brand values, goals, aspirations and most importantly, re-read the job specification. Try to understand exactly what will be expected of you and what your daily tasks will be, and if possible, try to learn as much as you can about the company culture.

Make sure you bring all the necessary documents for your HR team, even if they did not request this. Consider taking in your passport, bank details (so they can pay you) and national insurance details. These are usually always needed, so it is best to keep them together in a folder, and bring them in on your first day.

2. Be presentable (those first impressions count!)

All companies have different dress codes, usually depending on the type of business they are or based on the industry they are in. It is best to have the same standards you had for your interview stages and show you have made an effort. Keep the dress code as business wear on your first day, as once you have started, you will get a feel for what your colleagues wear and you may even be given a dress code by the company.

If the company has a 'dress down day' (usually a Friday) then keep it casual but smart! Avoid clothing like ripped jeans, or t-shirts that may be viewed as offensive, for example the famous 'FCUK ME' (by French connection). Wear smart jeans, clean shoes and maybe opt for a plain t-shirt. Again, over the weeks you will understand what is appropriate and what is not. But to give that first good impression, always keep it smart!

3. Introduce yourself

It is important to become familiar with the people you will be working with. Also, consider those outside your immediate team. For example, if your company has more than one office it is perhaps a good idea to ring those colleagues. It is good to introduce yourself and explain what you will be doing for the company as well as ask questions about them and their job role. It shows that you have taken the time to get to know everyone, and that you are also interested in other areas of the business, rather than just the department you are working in.

If your colleagues are attending any social events, and they invite you to it, it is a good idea to go along and join in. This is a great opportunity to show your colleagues what you are like outside of work, and let your personality shine! This will also help you to feel more comfortable in the office, and is a chance to learn everyone’s names. You could end up speaking to people you might not get chance to normally in the working day.

4. LinkedIn: Update your profile

Depending on your industry, this may be essential and your company could have their own LinkedIn policy they want you to adhere to. Check this with your manager and if not, then update your profile to include your new title, location and main duties.

It is also a good idea to write a short sentence or paragraph about your company and what they do, if they provide a service, explain how the company helps its clients. Keep it short and sweet, and it can also be a good idea to stick to what is listed on the company website. If the company has won awards, it might be a nice touch to include this in the company overview too.

Add your new colleagues to your network and join any relevant groups that you think might help with the industry you are in. Remember to follow your new company on LinkedIn and share the content like blog posts and competitions. Not only will the marketing team appreciate this, but it shows you are proud of the company you are working for and want to be a part of their success.

5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance

Finally, if you need help, just ask for it! As a new starter, no one will be expecting you to know everything so it is important you ask for help and guidance if you need it. This will help you to avoid making mistakes in the future as well – it is better to make mistakes in the beginning and learn from them rather than spend time doing something that is incorrect.

Listen to your colleagues and the more questions you ask the more you will learn. Your manager and co-workers will appreciate you taking an interest and the communication will help you to understand things quicker. It is also a good chance to bond with your colleagues and is a conversation starter!

Whether you're still settling in or you're due to start a new role soon, we have lots of information on the candidates section of our website. If you've not found what it is you're looking for, please get in touch with us for more information.