It’s almost here! Your first day at work—whether for a new summer internship or full-time job after graduation—is right around the corner, and it’s time to prepare. You wrote a great cover letter and resume, crushed the interviews, got the job, but it’s not over yet. So, let’s get ready.
Test Your Commute
It is always a good idea to take a dry-run a few days before your first day (at the same time as you would normally commute). Remember, on this important day, early is on time, and on time is late. And obviously, be sure to know when to arrive and to whom you should report when you get there.
Prepare Your Attire
Try to fit the office culture, but don’t overdo it. When in doubt, ask someone you trust, and remember that you may need to have a photo taken for your ID on your first day.
Observe Your Surroundings
Little things, like being prepared to adapt to your new job’s culture and surroundings, can make a big difference. Put a few dollars in your pocket for lunch and other expenses in case the eateries nearby take only cash, but be ready for lunch with your new boss.
Remember your wise grandmother’s advice: “You never get a second chance to make a great first impression.” So, silence your cell phone, pay attention, and get ready to interact with everyone you meet.
Make Your Introduction Count
Your 30-second commercial or elevator pitch should be as sharp as ever because everyone will want to know more about the new person—your school, your major, where you’re from, what your job is, what you do for fun, if you want to be on the office softball team, and more. Chances are you will use that elevator pitch more in your first few days than you did while trying to get hired. If you are an intern, you are still interviewing every day. If it is a new job, people around you will have expectations, and your initial words will be remembered.
Get Ready To Work
Look at your job description again and review all your notes from the interview process to re-familiarize yourself with your role, the people around you, and their expectations of you and your work. Otherwise, your first day may involve orientation with Human Resources or a welcome event with the office.
You’ll only get so many first days in the office, after all. These preceding steps may sound like a lot, but this is a big day. So smile, relax, enjoy, make some new friends, and good luck!
BU + Beyond 