10 things that should not cross your mind on the first day of a new job

By adminDecember 2, 2024April 2, 2025

Time to Read:-words

A new employee is filled with worries and pressure on the first day of work. There are lots of things which require learning, people to be introduced to and an entire adaptation phase which is to be relative both to the routine and the processes, as well as the team.

But one thing is for sure: nobody wants to step into the wrong shoes right from the start. It is always understandable to be anxious, especially when a much awaited opportunity is in hand, but just like during a selection process, prior preparation assists the process and makes the day easier.

Every new employee must avoid making selected mistakes during their first day at work

The initial day of work creates essential outcomes that matter for both staff members starting their roles and their business organization. Bad first impressions during employment transition can result in difficulties for the employee’s professional advancement. Focusing on some of these issues gives a chance to start on the right foot and ensure solid professional relations. Therefore the following should never be done on day one:

1 – Arriving late

It is possible to deal with unexpected events along the way, but any type of delay on the first day will be seen as a lack of commitment or disinterest. This will affect the professional’s reputation right away.

Being punctual creates two things: a positive first impression but also shows to the professional world that planning abilities and preparation for future challenges are strong skills.

2 – Dressing inappropriately

The way we dress says a lot about our personality, but we cannot deny that certain environments are more restricted or formal when it comes to attire. It is possible that the professional has already paid attention to this issue during the selection process , observing HR managers and interviewers, but if in doubt, ask the professional with whom you have direct contact.

Clothes may have nothing to do with someone’s professional skills, but they indicate their ability to adapt, understand the environment they are in and follow rules.

3 – Using your cell phone excessively

Cell phones can be used as work tools, whether through messaging services like WhatsApp or even to check tasks on your calendar, but excessive use, especially for personal purposes, indicates that professionals are not paying attention to what they need to learn.

Leave it for moments of rest, such as lunchtime, and stay focused on what you need to know from your colleagues.

4 – Talking too much or too little

Everyone should aim to achieve equilibrium even though it remains difficult to achieve consistently throughout their lives. The rules of communication should consider this aspect. A reluctance to speak or refusing to express yourself leaves your colleagues thinking you have a lack of initiative yet speaking excessively will have them viewing you as arrogant show-off behavior. Restrict both personal anecdotes and professional tales to short relevant segments when you talk about the discussion at hand.

5 – Ignoring the company culture

Just as companies may have rules regarding dress, there are aspects related to an organization’s culture that need to be observed and respected.

If there is any material related to the topic, read it carefully and look for ways to act accordingly. Also observe your colleagues to adapt more easily.

6 – Don’t ask questions

No one expects a person to join a company and start being productive the same day. Each organization has its own onboarding process, but in general the idea is to provide the key information.

This will raise questions, from simple things to the name of someone from another team, to technical issues involving software. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and expand your knowledge about the new company.

7 – Avoid socializing

Just as talking too much can be frowned upon on your first day, not bothering to talk to your colleagues is also a bad way to start. Accept invitations to lunch or coffee and look for opportunities to mingle with everyone.

8 – Being too critical

Even if you join a company with the mission of changing things, coming in and criticizing processes is considered disrespectful. Everything happens for a reason, and before you start criticizing, seek more information, get involved and ask about processes.

9 – Taking on too much

You may have beaten out many competitors to land the job, but you still have a lot to learn from your new position in the company. Don’t assume you know everything there is to know, and be open to learning new things and procedures.

10 – Forgetting to say thank you

Instagram is not the only place where gratitude is appreciated. Let’s put it this way; if you were offered a job, there were skilled employees in the company who must have seen the potential in you. So, feel free to express your thank you for being offered a chance. Also, recognize your teammates who worked to make you part of the group.