Getting adjusted to a new job is something many people are facing for a number of reasons, such as a personal hiatus or an unplanned couple of years working from home (or in-person) at a different company. The first day at a new job with so many new faces—and responsibilities—can bring up a range of emotions, similar to those children experience on the first day of school.
One of the most emotional times of year for a young child is starting school and walking into the classroom where they don’t know anyone, are unfamiliar with the routine and aren’t sure where the cafeteria or the bathroom is located. It’s not much different for a new employee strolling into an office space and sensing the all too common awkward and unfamiliar feeling in the pit of your stomach. Here are a few tips to make your first day of work go a little smoother.
Sharpen Your Social Skills
Instead of waiting for peers and your boss to introduce themselves and welcome you on the first day, take the initiative and walk up to people you see, introducing yourself with your first and last name. Only a few short years ago, I would have recommended immediately extending your hand for a handshake, but right now, it’s important to watch the body language of the other person and take note of their comfort level. Some people feel perfectly fine shaking hands, while others may still be hesitant. Many offices have resumed a full-time staff and are back to handshakes and business as usual. Research your corporate culture, ask about the greeting protocol and read the room. Proceed in a way that suits the environment and falls within your comfort level.
Pack Your Lunch
Don’t assume people will invite you out to lunch on your first day of work. In a perfect world, it would be nice to immediately bond with your peers, but often people have their own routines, have already made plans or are slow to engage. If you find yourself dining solo, avoid eating your lunch at your desk. Go to the office kitchen, break room or picnic area, take a seat and eat your lunch where you can see people and make conversation as they walk in and out. Admittedly, it’s an uncomfortable feeling to be sitting alone among strangers, but it’s also an opportunity to meet people you may not see from other parts of the office.
Have All Your Documents Ready
As you make a list of first day to-dos, don’t forget the required documents. You may need to show your driver’s license, your social security card or birth certificate, your license plate number for a parking pass, a passport or other forms of ID depending on what type of job you have taken. Gather everything together and place it in an envelope or portfolio so you will be prepared when talking to HR and filling out your employment forms.
Use Your Listening Skills
As children in the classroom, we were encouraged to raise our hands and listen carefully to the teacher. We were also told not to interrupt. In the office, listening is still an essential skill. Being part of the team by interacting and giving feedback with the people in your office will go a long way in establishing friendships and building a level of trust with your peers. Making others feel comfortable to share their thoughts is a vital leadership skill.
Ask For Guidance
When you are having trouble at school, from kindergarten through college, you have a variety of resources that will guide you in the right direction. Career Services at the university level offers all types of training, and asking for help in the office is an extension of that type of learning. You will not be expected to walk in the door knowing every skill you will be using, but it is certainly worth the effort to request guidance and clarity when needed. In addition, it shows confidence and enthusiasm when an employee appears interested in doing their best.
Be Warm Without Oversharing
Some people tend to share too much (TMI)—or talk too fast—when they are feeling nervous. If this is you, try taking a slow (but subtle) inhale or counting to three in your head as you compose your thoughts and respond. If you’ve recently left a toxic workplace or relationship, look for ways to shift the focus of conversation to another topic. Answer questions with brief details, nothing damaging to the previous employer, and follow up with a question of your own for a balanced exchange.
Practice Patience
You may find the first day of work to be somewhat difficult for a variety of reasons. Finding your place in any group takes time, and the office is no different. This is your opportunity to let people see you in your best light. Take small steps such as showing up on time, dressing professionally for your corporate culture and making every effort to fit in with your new group of colleagues. Stay away from the gossip, ask plenty of questions and take advantage of learning all you can in this new professional environment.
For more inspiration around the first day at a new job, you may also enjoy New Job Etiquette for College Grads. Be sure to check out The Protocol School of Texas. Read Diane’s posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.
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