Starting a new job

Well done. You’ve landed the job. The first thing you should do is pat yourself on the back and celebrate.

But more often than not, the initial excitement can turn to nervousness when you start to think about your first day or weeks in your role at a new organisation.

Don’t worry, it’s very normal. The best thing you can do is prepare yourself for your start. Here are a few things you can do to help you settle in smoothly and hit the ground running.

Get prepared before you start

Being prepared will help calm your nerves and set you up for success on the first day.

It’s a good idea to plan how you get here. 

Maybe do the drive beforehand to get familiar with the route and parking options once you get there (at the same time that you’ll make the trip on workdays, if possible, as rush hour traffic can be very different to a weekend trip). 

Or check the public transport routes and times online.

If you have kids or pets, you’ll need to organise reliable care to avoid any last-minute issues.

It’s also a good idea to confirm the dress code or uniform to look professional or have the right gear. You can call them beforehand to see what they expect or even organise to pick up a uniform before you start.

And it’s likely that you’ve already researched the company before your application or interview, but it doesn’t hurt to do a little more to understand its culture and the work they do.

Your first day

Your first day is all about making a strong, lasting impression. There’s more about this here [link to other page]. Arriving early shows that you’re keen and reliable. A polite greeting, a handshake and a smile help you start building rapport with your new team.

You’ll probably have to fill out a few forms, so bring your ID, details of your Tax File Number, bank account details, superannuation fund details, and any other documentation you think is necessary.

And maybe even bring a packed lunch if you’re unsure of the options nearby.

Ask some questions

Don’t hesitate to ask questions. It’s normal to need clarification as you try to familiarise yourself with a new environment. Some questions you can ask are:

• What are my expected work hours? Do I have a specific time for lunch?
• What is the structure of my team or department? Who is best to ask specific questions or get resources?
• How do people prefer to communicate?
• Where can I see my benefits, paid time off, and important holidays?
• What are my essential daily tasks?
• What do you expect for me in my first week and month?
• What does success look like?

The first few weeks

The first few weeks of a new job are all about getting used to your role and understanding how things work. 

Being proactive by taking the initiative to ask for additional tasks if you finish early shows your enthusiasm and ability to work hard and contribute.

Continue to arrive on time every day. If there are any issues, like transportation difficulties, let your employer know right away.

Listen to your bosses and co-workers. There’s always a learning curve so take on their advice, feedback, and instructions.

Over time, you’ll start to pick up on the company’s culture. Pay attention to how your colleagues interact with one another and observe the unspoken rules around the office. Avoid getting involved in any office politics or workplace drama. 

Focus on doing your job well and building positive relationships with your co-workers.

It’s always a good idea to stay organised. Keeping a personal record of your shifts and important dates can help you stay on top of things, ensuring you never miss a shift or deadline.

Professional behaviour

Every workplace expects certain behaviour. It’s important to minimise personal phone use during work hours and reserve it for break times. 

If you need to take a break, follow the established schedule or check in with your team to ensure it doesn’t disrupt the flow of work. Always act respectfully, be inclusive and avoid using inappropriate language or making offensive remarks.

If you’re running late or not feeling well enough to come to work, let your boss or manager know before your shift starts and check whether a medical certificate is needed for extended sick leave.

And make sure you know and follow the safe work practices and workplace health and safety guidelines.

Support in your new role

We're here to help you every step of the way, so we will stay in touch. We can offer guidance and support to help you succeed in your new role.

If you have any concerns, contact your APM employment consultant for help. They’re here to help you resolve any concerns and ensure you’re on the right track.

We will also have regular reviews to assess your work performance and ensure you are working enough hours to be independent of Centrelink benefits and on a long-term career path.

Stay positive

Almost everything is new when you’re starting a new job. It can be overwhelming. 

But with a positive attitude, good preparation, being proactive, and maintaining open communication, you can make the transition much smoother.