Career Advice
10 Things You Mustn’t Say (Or Do) On Your First Day At Work
Glassdoor Team
Glassdoor Team | Author & Career Expert at Glassdoor | 31 Oct 2019
It’s always a bit nerve-wracking to start a new job. It’s perfectly understandable if you make a few slip-ups, but it’s best practise to try and limit any potential mistakes that could happen. Knowing a few "Do Nots" should help you make the transition smooth:
1. Do Not Arrive Late
It’s your first day; everyone expects you to be supercharged and eager, so don’t turn up late and let everyone down. You do not want to start your first day off with a 'sorry' as well as listen to tutts of disapproval.2. Do Not Ask to Leave Early
Just as bad as arriving late is asking to leave early on your first day. It might be the only dentist appointment available for the week, but you’re just going to have to suck it up and book another appointment for another day — preferably another week.3. Do Not Smell of Alcohol
It might be a tradition that all newbies get taken to the pub for lunch on their first day, but that doesn’t mean you have to drink alcohol. Be responsible and ask for a soft drink.4. Do Not Run Down Your Last Employer
As time goes on, people will ask you about your last place of employment, but if anyone asks you on your first day, it isn’t a cue to give them the full dirt. People will automatically become cautious of you if come across as a bitter gossip on your first day.5. Do Not Yawn
If you are tired you’ll have to stifle any yawns that come on, as yawning often signifies boredom. Some might also think that you didn’t bother having an early night before your first day in your new job.6. Do Not Swear
You might be someone who lets out the odd naughty word every so often, but you must control yourself, especially on your first day — first impressions count. As time goes on and you’re comfortable with your team, and importantly they’re comfortable with you, the odd swear word should be acceptable.7. Do Not Ask to Book Holiday Leave
Your focus should be on learning the ropes, so asking what holiday you can book is not going to go down too well. Put your holiday plans to the back of your mind. On your first day at work you need to concentrate on fitting in and showing everyone you were the right choice for the job.8. Do Not Raid the Fridge
This is a definite no-no. If you want to make friends, you should steer clear of the communal fridge. There’s nothing worse than the newbie using all the milk up or eating someone's yoghurt. Find out what the fridge etiquette is before assuming you can help yourself.9. Do Not Clock-Watch
If there’s a clock in your new work premises, do not keep staring at it, or just as bad, keep looking at your watch. No-one likes a clock watcher, if time is going slow then do something about it. Be proactive — go and ask if you can shadow or help someone.10. Do Not Complain
It’s easy to moan about a slow internet connection or an uncomfortable chair, but just stop yourself. Get on with something else during a slow internet connection and make a note to bring in a cushion for your chair for the next day. As time goes on, you can give your constructive feedback to your employer, but complaining on the first day isn’t going to win you any brownie points.Glassdoor Team
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Tags:New Job
