
Your first day at work will be completely different to
somebody else's depending on the job sector you've got yourself
into and what company you're working for. Some companies run an
induction day or training day where you'll learn all about the
business you've signed up with, watch plenty of health and safety
videos and get the chance to ask any niggling questions you have.
Your superior may walk you around the workplace and feed you lots
of information, so it's best to take a pen and pad with you or, if
you're a tech whiz, make some virtual scrawlings on your tablet
device.
What else should I expect?
- Lots of new faces - Your future boss or a
person from HR (Human Resources) will welcome you initially, plus
you will be introduced to other employees who you will come into
regular contact with such as your supervisor, manager, HR staff,
union representatives and, of course, your work colleagues.
- Other newbies too - If the company you're now
working for is quite large, there's a chance that you won't be
alone in your induction. There may be other people at the same age
as your or from the same background so don't be afraid to break the
ice.
- Lots of new information - Don't be alarmed by
the amount of new info you're expected to take in! There'll be
opportunities for you to ask any questions during the day, plus you
can always kindly ask the tour guide to repeat themselves if need
be. You'll also be given a welcome pack and company handbook, as
well as important names, phone numbers and safety procedures. Plus,
you'll be given your uniform if the job requires it.
- Lots of questions - You will be asked for your
bank account details, so make sure you take them along with you, as
well as your National Insurance number (if you've lost your card,
the number can be found on an old payslip, P60 or by contacting HM
Revenue & Customs).
- To have lunch - The company may have an onsite
canteen for you to use where you'll be able to buy hot food at
lower than usual prices. If not, you will be allowed outside of the
building to get your own lunch from nearby shops or supermarkets.
So remember to bring some dinner money! Alternatively, you could
bring a packed lunch.
I'm shattered already! I don't think I'm cut out for this
work malarkey!
It's perfectly natural to feel exhausted after your first day as
you're constantly bombarded with new information, names and faces!
Don't worry if you can't remember everybody's names or what your
boss' favourite colour is, there'll be plenty of chances for you to
pick this information up as you're working!
So, what do I do now?
Relax! You've survived your first day without any problems and
met a few new friendly faces! Get an early night so you're
well-rested and prepared to take on your second day of
work!