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In the beginning; Surviving the first day on the job

By Valerie Anderson, Source: Tribune Media Services

As we begin a new year and a new decade, many people will also begin new jobs, as the economy picks up steam and the unemployment rate starts to drop. But with new jobs comes the stress of the first day. It’s kind of like the first day at school all over again. What should you wear? Who will you sit with at lunch? And will you pass your first test?

Engineering Professor Ziyad Duron at Harvey Mudd College, Claremont, Calif., says the keys to success on your first day are pretty easy: arrive on time, be well dressed, and listen.

Eileen Kohan, executive director, USC Career Planning and Placement Center, says that it’s important for new hires to do preparation in advance to ensure they are ready for their first day. She recommends thinking back to their interview. How long did it take to get to the office? Where did you park? What was the work environment like? Were people dressed casually or in suits?

“Give yourself time for unexpected traffic, public transportation or parking challenges,” she advises. “If you arrive early, stop for a cup of coffee and gather your thoughts.”

Dress code

Typically, new hires get a sense of the office dress code during the interview process, but what if you interviewed for the job remotely? Duron advises new hires make every effort to understand the new job environment before your first day, but if there are questions about dress code, always err on the side of formal.

“If the work culture allows it, you can transition into less formal dress later,” he says. Kohan agrees. “If you are unsure of the dress code, wear a suit,” she says. “You can always adjust on day two.”

New hires will also be working along side new co-workers, and depending on how thorough the interview process was, you may be meeting many of them for the first time. In an ideal situation, you will be introduced to everyone in the office by upper-level management, but if you’re not, how should you go about the introduction process? Duron says that if a new hire is in a room with a co-worker, they should take a chance and introduce themselves.

“Nothing bad is going to happen!” he says.

Taking the lead is a major aspect of success on the first day, adds to Kohan. She advises new hires schedule a formal meeting with their supervisor to review expectations.

“If you don’t know how your boss defines success, you will never get there,” she states. “And if your new boss is booked for the day, take the initiative and introduce yourself to colleagues. This is not the day to be shy.”

Lunchtime

Introducing yourself to your co-workers is one thing, but inviting yourself out to lunch with them is another. What should you do when lunchtime rolls around? Kohan says that frequently supervisors will host a company lunch on a new hire’s first day. “If not,” she says, “take a walk around the neighborhood and check out your surroundings and dining options.”

Duron believes lunchtime is a great opportunity to meet co-workers in a relaxed setting. But he agrees that if that does not happen, it’s a great chance to unwind.

“Take yourself out to lunch and relax a bit, if you are feeling stressed about your first day,” he says.

First impressions

The number one issue on most new hire’s minds on their first day is how to make a good first impression. Duron believes the most important thing any employee can do is to be a good listener.

“There needs to be a sense of listening, mentoring, and a willingness to be taught, especially in the ways that are unique to the organization that hired you,” he says.

While listening is important, Kohan believes energy and enthusiasm are paramount. “The best way to impress your new employer is to demonstrate competence and confidence,” she says. “Your goal is to make your boss look good. And you can do that by bringing a high level of energy and enthusiasm to each task, no matter how menial. Ask questions to clarify directions. Complete assignments on time and ask for more. It is important that your supervisor and colleagues see that you are dedicated not only to your own personal success, but also the success of the organization.”

© 2009, Tribune Media Services