Day 1 Essential Tips

First Impressions Matter
Build Relationships Early
Avoiding Common Pitfalls

The Importance of First Impressions

First impressions are not just powerful, they are the foundation of your professional relationships. Research indicates that these initial perceptions can significantly impact the opportunities and connections you make. Understanding and effectively managing first impressions can greatly influence your long-term success.

Key Timeframes:

First Day: Show your Best Self. People often form opinions when meeting someone, so be ready to make a strong first impression.
First Week: Show your Positive Side. Demonstrate professionalism, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. Fostering a supportive environment significantly enhances job satisfaction and the assessment of your performance.
First Month: Show you are Approachable. Integrating into the team and establishing meaningful relationships create an invaluable sense of belonging in a new workplace, making you feel more connected and engaged in your new role.

A new job is like a blank book, and you are the author.

How to Prepare for First Impressions

Before starting your job, you must do your homework to be ready for "Day 1".

1. Dress for Success

Workplace dress codes vary, so dressing for success can be tricky. What you wear in the first weeks should be in keeping with the workplace culture. Whether the dress code is professional, business casual, or more relaxed, dressing appropriately shows that you respect the company environment. If in doubt, aim to be slightly overdressed rather than underdressed. Clean, well-kept, and properly fitting clothes give an instant impression. Neat grooming and attention to small details like polished shoes and minimal accessories can enhance your professional appearance.

2. Walk in with Confidence

Your body language speaks before you do. Walk tall with your shoulders back and maintain good posture. A smile is always a good place to start. Don't be afraid to shake hands and give your name to new people you meet. And if they don't give their name, ask for it and use it immediately to show them you are listening. Confidence isn't just about how you feel—it's about how you present yourself to others.

3. Show a 'Can Do' Spirit

A 'Can Do' spirit is not just a mindset, it's a powerful tool. Approach your new job with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Stay open to new experiences and proactively ask questions or seek guidance, knowing that a positive mindset can help you easily navigate your new role and contribute to a positive work environment.

4. Master Verbal and Nonverbal Communication

A new job is a good time to clean up your language. Some of us have fallen into the trap of using terms that diminish us. Examples include the use of repetitive words or non-words:

Um, er, etc.
You know
Like
I'm sorry

Before you start your new job, video yourself in a mock interview to see what they are and then work to avoid them. Joining Toastmasters or similar groups can help you overcome these habits.

Your nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions and gestures, can reinforce your professionalism and approachability, or not. Avoid crossing your arms, fidgeting, or looking down while speaking. Instead, smile genuinely, nod in acknowledgment, and use open gestures to convey engagement.

5. Prepare in Advance

Success starts before you walk through the door. Get a good night's sleep, eat a healthy breakfast, and leave early to ensure you arrive on time. Research the company's values and workplace culture so that you can align your behavior accordingly. Knowing what to expect can help ease first-day nerves and make you feel more prepared.

Great onboarding can improve employee retention by 82% - Brandon Hall Group

Leverage your Employee Onboarding: What to Expect and How to Succeed During Onboarding

Most companies have some form of onboarding to complete the hiring process and review company policies. This period typically includes orientation sessions, introductions to key team members, and training on essential tools and processes. Depending on the job and company, onboarding may last a few hours or weeks.

During onboarding, new employees may expect to learn about company culture, team dynamics, and job expectations. Company culture may be explicitly stated. Or implicit through the tone and details shared about the way of working and organization structures. Be mindful of both kinds of cues to help you navigate the social norms as you start a new job.

New employees should make the most of their onboarding. They should be proactive—ask questions and seek clarity on their responsibilities. However, be mindful not to interrupt the presenter's flow, as this can be distracting. If you are in a group, don't do all the asking or talking. Doing so can come across as 'high maintenance' and give your new colleagues the wrong impression.

Take notes during onboarding and training. Writing notes on processes and other details shows you are engaged and helps you remember what you are learning. Additionally, demonstrating enthusiasm, adaptability, and a willingness to learn will set a positive tone, making the transition smoother and positioning you for long-term success.

Your Job Day 1 Action List

Strong workplace relationships aren't just about career success—they can enhance confidence, resilience, and overall well-being. — Sarah Willingham, Entrepreneur and Former Dragons' Den Investor.

Your first day is crucial in setting the tone for your career at a new company. You want to make a strong impression, integrate smoothly, and set yourself up for success. Focusing on these 3 steps can set you apart and lay a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in your new workplace. Here are three key steps to help you start right:

1. Make Friends: Build Your Network Early

Your success in any workplace is not just about your skills; it's also about relationships. As you navigate your new environment, colleagues can guide, mentor, and support you. Identifying potential mentors or allies who can help you learn the ropes is crucial in your early days and can significantly impact your career growth and job satisfaction.

Introduce yourself to your team and be approachable.
Show genuine interest in your coworkers' roles and experiences.
Join group conversations, company slack channels, or informal coffee breaks.
Identify potential mentors or allies who can help you learn the ropes.

Building strong connections early will make your transition smoother and create a support system that benefits your career growth.

For example, you can say, "I am excited to learn how your team uses Microsoft tools to manage projects. Would you be willing to take a coffee break with me today so I can learn more?"

2. Create Your Value Proposition: Have an Elevator Pitch

Your value proposition is a concise statement that defines who you are, what you do, and how you contribute to the company. A well-crafted elevator pitch helps others understand your role and potential impact.

Think about the skills and experiences that got you hired.
Frame your contributions in a way that aligns with the company's goals.
Keep it clear, confident, and under 30 seconds.
Practice saying it naturally in conversations with colleagues.

For example, you can say: "I have a project management and process optimization background. I'm excited to bring efficiency and structure to our team's workflow, helping us effectively meet our deadlines."

3. Have Your Ask Ready: Know What You Want

Your first few weeks are about learning, but you should also be prepared to ask for what you need. Whether it's clarification on tasks, tools to be more effective, or introductions to key people, don't hesitate to make reasonable requests.

Ask your manager what success looks like in your first 90 days.
Request access to necessary tools, systems, or resources.
Seek feedback early and often to adjust your approach.
Clarify expectations and priorities to align with your team's goals.

Having a well-thought-out ask demonstrates initiative and a desire to contribute meaningfully. Later, once you have established yourself, your skills, and the outcomes you help create, 'asks' can be more about your goals. For example, ask about the career path and timing for your position’s raises and promotion potential. If you want to learn how to approach asking for a raise or promotion, read this article.

For example, you can say: "I have roles and responsibilities for the team. I have created a diagram to help me understand key department and project stakeholder relationships. Can you review this and tell me if I am missing anything?"

Start Strong, Stay Engaged

Starting a new job is exciting but can also be overwhelming. These three steps—making friends, crafting your value proposition, and knowing your ask—will help you integrate successfully and build a strong foundation for your career.

Check out these videos for more insights on creating an outstanding Resume (or CV), preparing for the interview, and learning how to learn on the job.