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FIRST 90 DAYS

Take a deep breath. First day jitters are completely normal, especially when you are excited about your new job! Although you have your foot in the door now, there are still some important things to keep in mind as you begin your new job and acquaint yourself with co-workers, supervisors and your work environment.

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THE FIRST 90 DAYS ON THE JOB​

  • Show both your supervisor and co-workers that you are professional and take your new position seriously.​​

  • Think of your first thirty to ninety days as an extended interview.

  • Before going to work your first day, learn as much as you can about your new company. Visit the website and review annual reports or brochures (if available).​​

  • Remember to ask your employer about the dress code ahead of your first day.

  • Remember the time you took to prepare your professional appearance for your interview? Do the same thing again. Make sure that your clothing is clean, presentable, and appropriate for the role.

  • Be punctual and arrive early (but not more than 15 minutes early). As with your interview, leave yourself plenty of time to account for traffic or unexpected circumstances.​​​

  • During your orientation, take notes and do not be afraid to ask questions. Show how interested and motivated you are to do a good job. You are not the first employee who has gone through training! If you do not have a written job description, make your own. Write down your daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly responsibilities.​​

  • Do not share anything that is signed out specifically only to you and is your responsibility.

  • Write down and commit to memory the mailing address, phone numbers, website, and any key email addresses you may need for your new company and direct supervisor.​​

  • Be friendly and start to get to know your co-workers but avoid workplace politics. Be inquisitive, listen, and be open-minded.​​

  • Do not complain or gossip about your old company or boss. A negative attitude is seen as very unprofessional.​​

  • Make sure you are familiar with all the work equipment and procedures.​​

  • Read the entire handbook or any documents you are expected to know, especially if you sign a document stating that you have read them.

  • Educate your family members on phone etiquette and appropriate times to call and how to contact you in an emergency if you will not have access to a cell phone during work.​​

  • Follow personal cell phone policies. Do not text or make phone calls for personal reasons while clocked on the job. Alert your supervisor if you have an emergency need to do so.

 

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR OFFICE-BASED JOBS

  • In terms of the office dress code, some offices are causal, so be sure to get the official dress code.

  • When you record your personal phone message, be upbeat and clear. Remember to say your name and your company’s name.

  • Do not share key cards, office keys, disks, and passwords.

  • Follow all office rules.

  • Pay attention to the office schedule and expectations of what hours to keep. Leaving work earlier than other people, especially when there is a big deadline or project, could give the impression that you are not willing to make an effort. Whereas, staying late every night may not be best either; it could become something that’s expected.​​

  • Make sure you are familiar with all the office equipment and how to use it.​​

  • Always turn off your cell phone when you are in a meeting. If you forget, quickly apologize and silence the phone.

 

​If you want to keep building on your professional skills and growth, we encourage you to read about our monthly Professional Women's Group program. Check out the Professional Women's Group page for more information

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