New job jitters

[Anonymous]

Start new job Monday.

What are some things I should or should not do on my first day?

Its been 8 years since I started a new job and Im really nervous.

Do you have any tips for me?

[Anonymous]

Hard to say specifically without knowing your level and the field. I appreciate it when new staff pay attention to each person that they're introduced to in the office. It's usually painfully obvious when someone starts and makes an effort to learn names only of the people they perceive to be important. Observe carefully and try to find an ally who is wiling to show the ropes. Good luck and I'm sure you'll be fine!

[Anonymous]

Learn names. Be interested in what others are doing. Listen more than talk.

[Anonymous]

Be nice to everybody. Ask questions. Buy new shoes. Think in advance about how you will get there on time. Have someone else do kid pickups for the first week. Bring your ID and SS card for the I 9 form. Remember that you are great and they hired you for a reason.

[Anonymous]

Bring W-2s from the last two years so in case your new employer tries to shaft you, you can bend over as quickly as possible.

Sincerely,

DCUM

[Anonymous]

Don't cry. If you must, do it in private.

[Anonymous]

SMILE

[Anonymous]

I discovered that by saying, "Everyone's so NICE here!" really enthusiastically, it makes people be nice.

Bring a book and keep it on your desk. That's how I found the other readers at my firm.

Don't wear brand new shoes - you'll be limping at the end of the day. Bring oil-blotting sheets to blot your face after lunch so you're not shiny. Be prepared to look your best on your SECOND day too - they may spread out having you meet people so you're not overwhelmed, or take your ID photo the second day.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I discovered that by saying, "Everyone's so NICE here!" really enthusiastically, it makes people be nice.

Bring a book and keep it on your desk. That's how I found the other readers at my firm.

Don't wear brand new shoes - you'll be limping at the end of the day. Bring oil-blotting sheets to blot your face after lunch so you're not shiny. Be prepared to look your best on your SECOND day too - they may spread out having you meet people so you're not overwhelmed, or take your ID photo the second day.

Hold off on the book. You're there to work. Not a great first impression.

[Anonymous]

Relax a little bit. Remember everyone had a first day once.

[Anonymous]

After the first day, I've found they give me day or two to complete my corporate training web videos. Rest up so you don't fall asleep from boredom.