First Day at your First JOB

Day 1 at your FIRST job!

It is an unexplainable feeling ! Nervous yet excited! New people, new rules, new office and a new you!?

Till now you were surrounded by your friends, classmates, teachers, parents and acquaintances but now it's time to enter the PROFESSIONAL world!?

I have switched jobs, industries and offices and hold 5 years of working experience, let my mistakes be your stepping stones. I wish someone would have told me these things on the first day of my first job! Here are 3 hacks to help you have the BEST FIRST DAY!

1. NETWORK!?

This is your beginning, talk to everyone in the office with confidence, take the initiative and be the first one to say hi! It is important to choose the right greeting for different people. For example, if you are greeting someone at an associate level, you can say Hi/Hey and introduce yourself but if you are greeting a Partner/CEO have a more formal approach - Good Morning/ Good Afternoon. Research about the organization to know about the hierarchy. You can use their website/ linkedin.?

If you are talking to someone that is not in your department, here is an amazing question to ask - What kind of information will be exchanged between us?

1. DRESSING/ GROOMING

This is your first job and people will have first impressions! Dressing and grooming comes under non-verbal communication, so before you speak the way you dress and groom already speaks volumes about you. If you are not sure about what to wear - you can always ask the HR to provide guidance on the dress code or attire expectations for the office.?

For men opt for a crisp, long-sleeved, white or light blue dress shirt, paired with black trousers. Add a belt that is the same color as your shoes.?

Grooming Tips: A Neat haircut, trimmed facial hair, and clean, well-maintained nails.

For women opt for a formal blouse in a neutral color paired with a dark colored formal skirt or trousers. Wear closed toed footwear such as pumps or loafers.?

Grooming Tips : Minimal Makeup and Accessories with a neat hairstyle?

PS I will be writing a separate article on how to dress like a BOSS !?

1. ASK QUESTIONS

I cannot explain how important this is. Ask questions about the role, the expectations & work culture. Asking questions shows your genuine interest and demonstrates engagement. Moreover it can be an excellent ice breaker while building relationships. The secret sauce here is - it makes your colleagues think you value their expertise :)?

There are several reasons why asking questions on the first day is essential such as clarifying doubts, avoiding miscommunication and assumptions.

I hope all you freshers have a wonderful first day at work! If this is a lot of information for? you, be confident and believe in yourself .

Yours truly,

Disha Zaveri