You applied for a job, went to the interview and got it. Well done!
Here are some quick tips to help your first day run as smoothly as possible.
80%
of people stay in a job after the first 45 days of employment
Plan your trip
The more you prepare, the more likely the day will be a success.
First, think about how you’ll get there. How far away is it? What transport will you use?
Always leave more than enough time. If you get there early, just wait around the corner until it’s time to start.
It may even be good to do a test trip a few days before. This will help you prepare for any unexpected things that might happen along the way.
I was scared I wouldn’t know what to do. In the end it went totally fine – I realised you just have to be yourself, be polite, listen, ask questions and show that you’re willing to learn.
Get prepped
Ask your employer some questions before your first day.
Questions like: Is there anything you need to bring with you? Is there a uniform or tools that will be required?
You may not need to ask any questions if your new employer has already given you the information you need to start the job.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. No one is expecting you to be an expert on your first day.
Prepare something to eat
Next, if you get a work break, think about what you’ll eat. Get lunch and snacks ready to take with you, especially if you don’t want to spend money buying food on the day.
Get your outfit ready
If there is no set uniform for the job, try to wear something that is clean, in good condition (no holes or stains) and has minimal graphics or wording.
Check what clothes you have a few days before you start. Wash what you need to and have it ready for your first shift.
If you don’t think you have something suitable, you might ask friends, family, mob or community if they have something you can borrow.
If you’re not sure what to wear, ask! You can also look at what their current workers wear. If there is a uniform, you may need to collect it before your first day – your employer should let you know this.
You might not think what you wear matters, but when you’re representing a business, it’s important to show them that you care and show customers that you respect them.
If you normally wear a hijab or other religious, culturally-appropriate or modest clothing, your employer is not legally allowed to discriminate against you. Read more about your rights at work.
What are workplace rights?
Everyone in a workplace should be treated fairly and with respect. This is your right. If you think you are not being treated fairly, this might be a breach of your rights.
Bring forms with you
If you haven’t already, you may need to fill out some forms with bank and other personal details. Make sure you have this information with you.
Initiative is the best quality you can have at work. If you can see a way to help, do something!
Take it slow and be kind to yourself
Starting a new job can be overwhelming. You might feel like you are never going to learn everything, but you will! It just takes time.
It also takes time to get to know who you’re working with. There might be lots of new people to meet and get to know. Sometimes you will get buddied up with someone who will help you settle in and train you.
If you get anxious about making conversation with people you don’t know, think about some questions you can ask to get to know your new teammates. A good way to start is to introduce yourself and ask how long they have worked there.
A good attitude goes a long way – nobody would expect any more when you’re just starting in a new job.
Learning new things takes time
In the first week, it’s common to go home after every shift feeling very tired. This is what happens when you are learning lots of new things.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. No one expects you to know everything straight away.
Before you know it you will be a pro and you won’t know what you were even worried about.
Remember:
- Always leave more than enough time to get there
- Think about what you’ll eat for lunch
- Prepare something to wear the night before
- Get to know people and be kind to yourself
- Remember to keep hydrated
- Learning new things takes time
- Try to enjoy your first day
Ready to put your skills into practice?
Get comprehensive guidance on navigating the workplace at Youth Central.
