We’ve been involved in thousands of first days over the years. From our experience, here are three things you can do to get off to a flying start.
1. Be a good listener
Research shows the best way to get people onside is to show a vested interest in their life, and tone down oversharing about your own. This positions you as a collaborator and learner - and there’s plenty of time for sharing the ins and outs of your life once you get to know your colleagues better.
2. Learn the rules
Every workplace has its own explicit and unwritten rules, and it’ll stand you in good stead to learn these as quickly as possible - even if this means giving up your daily 10am coffee habit or leaving your mobile out of sight until breaktimes.
3. Show positivity
While you’ll often not be given too much ‘real’ work to do during your first week on the job, the reality is your new colleagues and bosses will be sizing you up. Approach any task you’re given with gusto, keep informal chat light and on universally comfortable topics, and avoid criticising your ex-employer.
