Your first day at a new job can be exciting, but also terrifying.
You’re in a brand new environment where you don’t know many people, you’re learning an entire new skillset many times, and you’re afraid to mess up. The team here at Carter Recruiting and Associates has certainly been there in the past!
But do you know what really helps takes those nerves away and assists with your overall first-day production? Preparation. If you’re ready to roll and know what to do before you walk into work, you’ll feel much more confident.
We’ve put together 8 helpful strategies to really get you going on your first day.
1) Arrive Early and Leave Late
It’s all about setting the tone and letting your co-workers and bosses know what kind of employee you’re going to be. If you get to work before anyone else and you’re the last one to leave, automatically you are given a lot more trust in the eyes of everyone around you.
2) Be Prepared to Talk About the Company
Your new boss is going to be blown away if you prove that you’ve taken the time to learn about them and what makes their brand a success. And if you have suggestions on how you can make them even better, they may just name you Employee of the Month on the spot. Alright, maybe not that far, but you’d certainly be a quick office favorite, and you’d be helping your company move in the right direction.
3) Focus on Getting Some Small Wins
On your first day, you’re not expected to solve the company’s biggest problems. As they say, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Focus on achieving some small goals and make sure you’re starting out on the right foot. That’ll go a long way with your new boss, and it’ll help you build your confidence.
4) Send Thank-You Emails to Everyone Who Helped You Throughout the Day
Everyone loves to feel appreciated, and your new co-workers and bosses want to feel comfortable with you. A simple e-mail showing how much you appreciate them will speak volumes in the long run.
5) Ask Questions and Show You’re Ready to Learn
Have some questions ready for the team or for your boss before you arrive to work. And while you’re being trained, try to think of some things to ask on the spot. Your boss wants to see that you’re ready to learn and take action. Plus, don’t feel about about asking questions. Your boss and co-workers know that you’re brand new. You’re not supposed to know everything just yet. Questions are going to impress everyone around you.
We hope these little tips help you excel on your first day! Do you have any other suggestions on how to improve your first day on the job? Let us know on our Facebook page!
Carter Recruiting and Associates is one of the largest independent recruiting and outplacement companies in Arkansas. Our headquarters, located in Little Rock and our satellite office in Conway, both service accounts nationwide. We have satisfied clients and references from some of the largest companies in the state. With over 50 collective years of experience in the recruiting business, we have a vast amount of resources and knowledge to ensure a job well done.
Cherie Richardson
President
Cherie is the owner and president of Carter Recruiting and Associates. She holds a BA in psychology from the University of Mississippi and has over 30 years of experience in the recruitment of executive and manufacturing professionals. Cherie’s work has been instrumental for new plant start-ups, as well as building and maintaining relationships throughout the region and state of Arkansas. She is a member of the National Association of Female Executives and the National Association of Women Business Owners.