Your first day
First days are nerve-wracking for everyone, even the most experienced professionals. The best thing you can do is keep it simple. Arrive on time or a few minutes early. Dress appropriately. Bring a notepad and pen. Smile and introduce yourself to people.
You won't be expected to know everything on day one. Most employers understand there's a learning curve and will have some form of induction or onboarding planned. Focus on listening, absorbing, and asking questions when you need to.
Pay attention to the small things: how people communicate, the pace of the office, when people take breaks, and the general atmosphere. These details will help you settle in faster than trying to impress everyone with your expertise right away.
Making a good first impression
First impressions at work are formed quickly and can be hard to change. The good news is that making a positive one doesn't require anything extraordinary. Be reliable, be friendly, and be willing to learn.
Show up on time every day during your first few weeks. Respond to emails and messages promptly. Follow through on anything you say you'll do, even small tasks. These things signal to your new employer that they made the right choice hiring you.
Don't try to change things too quickly. Even if you spot obvious improvements, hold back until you've been there long enough to understand why things are done the way they are. Asking "why do we do it this way?" is fine. Saying "this should be different" in your first week isn't.
Understanding your contract
Before your start date, read your employment contract carefully. It sets out your rights and responsibilities, including your salary, working hours, notice period, holiday entitlement, and any restrictive covenants like non-compete clauses.
Pay attention to your probation period. Most contracts include one, usually lasting three to six months. During this time, your employer assesses whether you're the right fit, and your notice period is typically shorter. This is normal and shouldn't worry you.
If anything in your contract is unclear, ask your employer or HR team to explain it before you sign. It's much easier to raise questions now than after you've started.
Getting through your probation period
A probation period is a chance for both you and your employer to see if the role is right. From your side, the best approach is to be consistent, proactive, and open to feedback.
Set clear expectations with your manager early on. Ask what success looks like after three months and six months. If there are specific targets or milestones, make sure you understand them. Regular check-ins can help you stay on track and address any concerns before they become problems.
Don't be afraid to ask for help or admit when you don't know something. Employers would far rather you asked a question than spent hours going in the wrong direction. Showing that you're willing to learn and adapt is often more impressive than getting everything right from the start.
Building relationships with your new team
The people you work with day to day have a huge impact on how much you enjoy your job. Making an effort to build good relationships early on pays off in the long run.
Be approachable and open. Say yes to lunch invitations and coffee breaks, especially in the first few weeks. Learn people's names and what they do. Ask colleagues about their roles and how your work connects to theirs.
Every workplace has its own social dynamics. Take your time to understand them rather than trying to fit into a group straight away. Be yourself, be kind, and let relationships develop naturally. Forced friendliness is easy to spot and can have the opposite effect.
When the new job isn't what you expected
Sometimes a new role doesn't match what was described in the interview. The work might be different, the culture might not suit you, or the responsibilities might not align with what you were told. This is more common than people admit.
Before making any decisions, give it time. The first few weeks in any job can feel uncomfortable simply because everything is unfamiliar. Most people need at least a month before they can fairly judge whether a role is right for them.
If the issues persist, have an honest conversation with your manager. Many problems can be resolved with a simple discussion. If the role is genuinely not what was agreed, or if you're unhappy after giving it a fair chance, it's okay to start looking again. Staying in a job that makes you miserable won't benefit you or the employer.
