Even the most confident employees are likely to feel a tinge of nerves (among the excitement) on their first day at work. However, your first day can present great opportunities to make a fantastic first impression and immerse yourself in the culture of the office. Below we have provided a checklist so you can make the most of your first day at a new job.

Preparing for your first day ahead of time

In the days before you're due to start, spend time reminding yourself of important facts about your new company. Undoubtedly, you'll have done your research during the interview process, but there's nothing wrong with refreshing your memory. 

Arrive on time and well-prepared, avoiding any external factors that could make you stressed; for example, it might be worth checking the the best route the night before to avoid any travel troubles you might face. Also take time to double-check all the starting information you've received, and if you're unsure of anything, you can always get in touch with the HR department. 

Make note of a few essentials to take in with you, such as your bank account details, for a smoother transition. introduce yourself at any point.

Have a positive attitude in your new workplace

Put your fears to the back of your mind and start your first day at work with a positive attitude. As you make your new morning commute, take a few minutes to reflect on the fact that the company chose you for the job. Think about the skills and qualities you included on your CV and know that you have what it takes.

Read more: Be your best self in the workplace

Get ready to introduce yourself

Your first day on the job is likely to be a whirlwind of introductions and new faces, so don't be shy about introducing yourself to your colleagues in the kitchen. 

If you know you've met someone but can't remember their name, make light of it and ask them to remind you. It's fine to struggle for the first few days, but you will eventually need to put the right name to the right face.

It may also help to prepare what to say on your first day at work, have a short introduction speech in mind so you're ready to introduce yourself at any point.

Read more: How to introduce yourself on the first day of a new job

Listen and learn

Try to take in as much information as you can, about as many aspects of the role as you think you need to know. Don't be afraid to take notes to help you remember any new processes, software or activities of the business down the track. Imagine that someone at the end of the week will ask you about your role or business unit – what would your answers be?

No one expects you to know everything from the get-go, or to solve every problem on your first day, so ask as many questions as you need to make sure you have a clear understanding of any expectations.

Stay positive – you won’t learn everything in one day!

By the end of the day you will have a much better understanding of your new role, even if you haven't touched on every aspect of the role. Consider the positives of working with your new colleagues, the new challenges that you will face and reflect on the the reasons that you decided to accept the job offer before you head into day two.

Read more: How to handle first day nerves

For more career tips from us, please visit our advice page, or alternatively contact one of our recruitment experts today.