How to make a good first impression on the first day of your new job

What would happen if you showed up unprepared on the first day of your new job?

Here’s a quick story told by one of our recruiters at Fuse in Melbourne.

“I once spoke to a client who hired an employee, let’s call her Sally, only to let them go after a week.

Sally arrived at the office late on their first day wearing inappropriate attire. Because of their poor first impression, the manager kept a closer eye on Sally and noticed their productivity was much lower while working from home.

Because she was in her probation period, the employer was able to let Sally go after one week because she didn’t perform to standard.”

– Hazel McDermott, Recruitment Consultant

In this situation, maybe the employee was still learning, hence having a lower work output. However, the bad impression they made generated prejudice and worked against them.

Preparing a week early will not only relieve first-day jitters but will also help you put your best foot forward and make a positive first impression.

So, to help you prepare for your first day, we have developed a list of things you should do before starting your new job.

Before your first day on the job

Put yourself in the right head space

Get enough sleep the night before, make sure you’ve had enough to eat and keep yourself hydrated so you mind isn’t cloudy.

Getting in some exercise will also help blood flow to your brain, improving mental clarity and alertness. Going for a walk or doing some light stretching can help you feel more awake and focused. Even a few minutes of exercise can help you feel more energised and ready to take on the day.

Research the company

If you didn’t research the company during your interview process, now is the time to catch up.

Familiarise yourself with the company; learn about what they do and what your job entails. Understanding the company’s values, goals, and mission can help you align your work with their objectives and provide you with valuable insights into what is expected of you.

Stalk your co-workers

To give yourself a head start in the name department, research your team. Have a look through the meet the team page on the company’s website or look them up on LinkedIn. This will help you connect a face to a name and their position in the company.

Test run the commute

Unless you want to show up late, it’s essential that you plan your commute before you start. If you’re catching public transport, have a look at what the best route is and if there will be any delays.

If you are driving, look up the travel and arrival times for your destination. Keep in mind that the travel time at 7:30 am will be very different at 7:30 pm.

Take some time off

Taking some time off between jobs is a great way to ensure that you are mentally and physically prepared for your new role. It can help you relax, reset, and recharge your batteries.

Use the opportunity to complete any last-minute tasks or prepare for your new job – i.e. doing the things we’ve listed above and below. You can also take care of any personal tasks, such as getting a haircut or completing any outstanding errands.

Reflect on your previous job and set new goals

Identify areas for improvement or skills that you want to develop in your new role. Setting goals and priorities for your new job will help to build your motivation to do well.

Knowing where you want to succeed will ensure that you are fully present and focused. You can start your new job strongly motivated, making a good impression on your first day.

Plan your outfit

Establish the dress code before buying any new outfits. This should be part of your research about the company. Having a look at their social media photos will help you understand the company’s culture and work environment.

Once you know what to wear, have your outfit planned out the night before. Try it on to make sure it fits properly, and check for any stains or damage.

Contact your new manager

A few days before you start, reach out to your manager to check in. Ask if any documents need to be completed or if there is anything you need to prepare before you start. This will demonstrate to your new manager that you are proactive.

Confirm your start time and, if you’re still unsure, the company’s dress code.

Arrive early

This will ensure you have plenty of time to make the commute, find a car park, and find the office or building. Arriving early will give you time to freshen up and calm any first-day jitters. Give yourself a 30-minute buffer – time to grab a tea or coffee from your new local café before you start!

On the first day

Be friendly and approachable

Smile, make eye contact, and be open to meeting new people. If you’re invited out for lunch, accept the offer and use the time to learn more about your new colleagues. If you’ve brought lunch, simply save it for the next day or take it home for dinner.

Ask questions

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially during your onboarding process. It’s better to ask for clarification than to make assumptions and potentially make mistakes.

Actively listen to the answers and take notes if necessary. This will help you remember important details and avoid asking the same questions again. Don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions if you need further clarification, but remember that your colleagues also need their time for their own work too!

By showing your curiosity and readiness to learn, you can establish yourself as a proactive and engaged team member.

Stay positive

Starting a new job can be stressful, but maintaining a positive attitude can help you navigate any challenges that come your way.

Focus on the opportunities and exciting aspects of your new role. Think about what you can learn, the new people you will meet, and the potential for growth and development. You can also focus on the things that you enjoy about the job, such as the tasks you’ll be performing or the company culture.

Another way to stay positive is to approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset. Instead of dwelling on a problem, focus on finding a solution. This not only helps you to overcome obstacles, but it also shows your colleagues and managers that you are proactive and capable.

And that, is how to make a great first impression – unlike Sally. Making a bad first impression can be challenging to overcome and reverse. Remember that preparation is key, and taking the time to get ready for your new job can help you feel more confident, focused, and ready to tackle any challenges that come your way.

If you’re not quite at this stage and you’re still trying to land the job offer, check out our ultimate guide to job hunting in 2023 by clicking here or via the image below!