Your first day at work
In preparation
Review onboarding and orientation information: this will state where, when and who you will report to on arrival. It might list who you will meet in the week ahead and any activities planned for you.
Review their website, social media and sector press: try to gather information about their current plans and recent projects. Armed with this information you are less likely to fall into the trap of asking obvious questions and be well positioned to make thoughtful observations.
Plan your outfit: make sure it's appropriate to your workplace, or you may even have a uniform to wear. To eliminate any last-minute panic lay out the garments you intend to put on the night before. Ensure shoes are polished and comfortable to wear. Consider all weathers and pack waterproofs and an umbrella as you don’t want to arrive wet or dishevelled.
Your introduction: think of how you might introduce yourself to people, your experience and any projects you are looking forward to working on and contributing to.
Set an alarm: or even two alarms and give yourself plenty of time to reflect on the day and maybe eat breakfast or even exercise.
Pack: any documents that you have been asked to bring e.g. onboarding information or ID such as your passport or driving licence. Maybe take some food, refreshments and mints. A notebook and pen will be handy for taking notes or even an appropriate electronic device.
Day 1 checklist
If you are meeting remotely:
Wi-Fi: ensure you have reception and that your camera and sound are working on your laptop. Take some time to fully familiarise yourself with the technology and platforms your employer uses. Maybe even have a practice run with a friend first.
Background: consider when on camera and organise it so that you have a quiet environment. Turn your camera on. This will allow you to share a friendly smile and it is likely to encourage others to do the same. You will all be able to put faces to names.
Timing: log in to any virtual meetings early and chat to whoever else is there before things get started.
Relax: smile, be friendly and be yourself.
If you are meeting face to face:
Plan your commute: do you have the timetable for public transport, e.g. bus, tube, metro, tram or do you know the route if travelling by car? Give yourself extra time so that you arrive calm and have time maybe for a coffee and a relax.
Be curious: ask lots of questions and take notes.
Avoid use of your phone and turn it to silent: there will be opportunities to check texts and emails at a break. Buy a cheap watch to check the time rather than glancing at your phone.
What our grads say
Name: Robert Singleton
Graduated: 2020
Studied: BAcc Accounting & Economics
Current Job Title & Organisation: Accounts Officer, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)
I started working from home – my advice is to check equipment beforehand and try using Zoom and Microsoft Teams to make the first meetings with colleagues as stress-free as possible. Dress well at home as if going into the office to help you feel more confident and give a professional first impression.
Before my first day in the office, I drove so I knew the route and its location related to the train station. Be on time or early. Also, listen and don't be afraid to ask questions. And eat breakfast!
Name: Okky Irmanita
Graduated: 2016
Studied: MSc Media Management
Current Job Title & Organisation: Co-Founder, Buah Rakyat & Director of Accounts, Swarna Komunika
Start your first day with positivity - Get to know who your bosses and co-workers are and have a mindset about admiring their experience and knowledge. Learn from them and collaborate when possible.