Do’s and Don’ts of Starting a New Job

1. Do Show Up Early

First impressions are very important when starting a new job, so plan to get there before your scheduled start time. There may be paperwork or training you will need to do, so you do not want to show up late.

2. Don’t Forget to Plan Ahead

The first day of a job can be stressful, so plan ahead. Get all of the things you need to bring with you ready the night before and make sure you know where you are supposed to report to on your first day. Often it will be the same place you interviewed, but confirm the location with the hiring manager before your first day.

3. Do Pay Attention

There will be a lot of information given to you on your first day. Pay attention and try to remember as much as possible. This may be the only time you get with the hiring manager or trainer so make a good impression by staying engaged during training.

4. Don’t be Unwilling to Learn

If you were hired for your new job, you probably have experience from similar past jobs. It is important, even if you have done the job before, to be willing to learn. The jobs are probably not exactly identical, and your new company may do things differently.

5. Do Ask Questions

There are a lot of things at your new job you will not know on your first day. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It is better to ask them right away instead of trying to figure it out on your own later.

6. Don’t Ask for Time Off Immediately

The first few weeks in a job are full of training, shadowing, and learning, so do not ask for time off immediately when you start. This can be a big red flag for your new employer. Instead, try to schedule appointments and vacations before you start your job so you will not need any time off in the first week.

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