Interviews can be intimidating, but sometimes your first day on the job feels even more daunting. You don’t know any of your coworkers and haven’t found out the details of your day-to-day responsibilities.
But it’s vital to work through the nerves. Making a good first impression to both your coworkers and your manager is very important. Studies show it only takes a few seconds to form a first impression, and this often happens before someone even speaks.
Hiring and training a new employee is expensive. The average cost per hire is nearly $4,700, according to the Society for Human Resource Management, but for roles that are in higher demand or require more specialized skills, that cost quickly rises.You want to show your manager that they made the right choice. Here’s how.
Prepare Introductions
Since it’s your first day on the job, nobody is going to know who you are. You’ll be answering the same questions over and over, so take time to prepare a short introduction. Include a bit about your work background, your new position and manager, and other relevant information essential for first introductions. That way you’ll be less likely to get nervous when the questions start coming.
Don’t Be Shy
Even if you spend most of your first day taking training courses at your computer, find reasons to walk around and eat lunch in the breakroom. You want to meet your new coworkers and show them who you are, and that isn’t going to happen if you spend all day behind your desk.
Remember Names
People like to hear their names, and it’s especially impressive when someone remembers their name after meeting them for five minutes on their first day. If you can find a way to memorize your colleagues’ names, you’ll be memorable. If there’s an employee directory, do a quick review. You can also say your coworkers’ names again after they introduce themselves, or come up with a fun way of remembering their name, like Gary has gray hair, Marissa from Marketing, and so on.
Try Not to Stress
When it comes down to it, everyone knows it’s your first day. If you make small mistakes, or forget someone’s name, they probably won’t take it personally. You’re new and here to learn, and your coworkers understand that.
About Express Employment International
Express Employment International supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and affiliated brands, including Specialized Recruiting Group and Express Healthcare Staffing. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations in the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
