How to prepare for your first day at a new job: tips for success

First of all congratulations! Starting a new job is an exciting time but it can also be a little daunting too and it's completely normal to feel nervous. Whether you're joining a new company, stepping into a different role, or returning to work after a break, those first-day butterflies are something most of us experience. 

The good news? A bit of preparation can go a long way toward easing those nerves and helping you start strong. 

Every company is different, and each will have its own way 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. Get to know the company culture in advance 

Before your first day, revisit the company’s website, social media channels, and any communications you’ve had with your recruiter or hiring manager. You could also re-read the job specification. Try to understand exactly what will be expected of you and what your daily tasks will be.

Try to get a sense of the company’s tone, values, and workplace environment. For example, do they seem more corporate and formal, or relaxed and collaborative? This will help you prepare for how to communicate and what to wear on your first day.

If you're working through an agency like Sellick Partnership, don’t hesitate to ask your consultant what to expect - they often have inside knowledge of the team culture and dress code.

2. Be organised and prepare for your first day

Start your first day assertively by doing as much preparation as you did for your interview. Even if your new workplace is local, make sure you know exactly how long your commute will take - especially during peak travel times. 

If you're working on-site or in a hybrid role, you could even do a trial run the week before if your schedule allows. This gives you a realistic idea of timing and reduces the chance of any surprises on the day. 

If you're remote, make sure your tech setup works (camera, sound, Wi-Fi) and check if you need to download any software or log in early. 

Make sure you have 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 set up your pay) 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.

3. Be presentable 

It sounds simple, but it can make a big difference. Choosing what to wear the morning of your first day can add unnecessary stress. Get your clothes, bag, notebook or any paperwork ready the night before so you can focus on arriving calm and collected. 

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. 

If the company has a 'dress down day' (usually a Friday), then keep it casual but smart. Over the weeks, you will become accustomed to what is appropriate and what isn't. 

4. Arrive early and be ready to learn

Aim to arrive 10–15 minutes early on your first day. This not only helps you make a great impression but also gives you time to breathe and settle in.

Be open to learning, take notes during onboarding, and don’t be afraid to ask questions - your new colleagues will expect that.

5. 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's 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.

6. Remind yourself that nerves are normal - and temporary 

It’s completely natural to feel nervous before starting something new, but remember: you were hired for a reason. Your skills, experience, and personality impressed your new employer, and you belong there.

Try reframing nervous energy as excitement, and give yourself permission to not know everything on day one. Within a few weeks, what feels unfamiliar now will become part of your daily routine.

7. LinkedIn: Update your profile

Depending on your industry, this may be essential and your company could have their own LinkedIn policy it wants 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.

Connect with your new colleagues and join any relevant groups that you think might help with the industry you are in. 

8. 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's 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's better to make errors in the beginning and learn from them rather than spend time doing something that's 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.

By preparing ahead, staying curious, and giving yourself time to settle in, you'll turn first-day nerves into first-day success.

Looking for a new role that suits your career goals and personality? Sellick Partnership supports professionals across a range of sectors to find roles where they can thrive - from temporary contracts to permanent placements.

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