You've created a great CV, made it through the selection process, nailed the interviews and landed an exciting new job. Nicely done – all that hard work has paid off! Now there is just the small matter of your first day, a new environment, new people and plenty more unfamiliar things to contend with. But don't let a fear of the unknown make you nervous. Here at DNA, we do more than just help you get the role, we want to help you have a good first day too - and many more after that. So here is our guide to starting your new job the right way.
Get to know the company
Get online and do some extra research on your new employer. Try to find out more about the people who work there, what the company has achieved and what its industry reputation is like. Take a look at the company social media profiles and consider networking with some of your new colleagues to make some initial connections. Getting yourself familiar with as many things as possible before your first day could help you feel like less of a newbie. And of course, don't forget to ask us. We often have a lot of insights into the dynamic of the agency and team you will be joining and are always happy to share.
Ditch the bad habits
Were you always running late in your last job? Did you keep leaving important tasks until the last minute? Now is the time to cast aside some of those flaws and start anew as the perfect employee.
Make a great first day impression
Turn up on time, or even ten minutes early to show your enthusiasm for your new job. Make sure that you have dressed appropriately (hopefully you took note of the dress code when you were interviewed, if not, ask us) and make a conscious effort to remember as many people's names as possible.
Seek assistance when you need it
You can't be expected to know everything straight away but you don't want to come across as too needy either. If there is a problem you cannot solve on your own, asking questions will show you're eager to learn and also give you an opportunity to be introduced and talk to other people.
Align yourself with the right people
If you can identify colleagues at your level who are performing successfully and have a good relationship with the management, you may want to consider their approach to work as inspiration for your own. Make sure to avoid colleagues with a negative attitude and avoid complaining yourself or getting sucked into 'grumbling groups'.
Socialise
Chatting with your new colleagues in a more relaxed environment can be a great way to make friends. Although try to avoid getting involved with any conversations that are critical of the company - and don't overdo it either. Ease yourself into the social scene - don't 'burst' in!
Remember those who helped you get the job
Maintain contact with the people you networked with and referees who helped you out. Keep them in mind and if there is an opportunity to return the favour in the future, make sure you do. Same goes for your recruiter. We want to hear from you and maintain our relationship. We're here to help going forwards and love hearing from our success stories.
Best of luck and keep in touch.