How to Get Ready For Your First Day of Work
Congratulations on getting a new job! Now that you have gotten your new work assignment, it is time to make sure that you will be successful in your new placement by planning ahead and eliminating roadblocks to your long-term employment.
1. Save Your Assignment Sheet
When you came in the office to fill out your paperwork for your new job, you received an assignment sheet that included information such as your shift time, work site’s address, and important phone numbers. Make sure to review this sheet and put it in a safe place to use as a reference in the future. You should also add all important phone numbers, such as Hughes Resources’ number and your work site’s call off number, to your phone in case of an emergency.
2. Line up Transportation
Pre-planning you reliable transportation plays a huge role in making sure you get to work every day and on time.
If you have your own vehicle and valid driver’s license, make sure your car runs properly and has gas the night before your first day. The morning of your first day can be very stressful and you want to avoid any possible unnecessary complications. It is also smart to always have a back-up plan in case your car breaks down or you get in an accident. Identify a friend or family member who can give you a ride if needed.
If you are relying on public transportation, make sure you research your options ahead of time. Look at rates, hours, bus stops, and routes before your first day. You may want to do a practice run of your route ahead of time to make sure you know where you are going.
If you are relying on someone else to give you a ride to work, make sure you have several back-up options in case their car breaks down or they get sick and cannot take you to work. Remember, it is your responsibility to report to work, not your ride’s.
3. Arrange Alternatives for Family Responsibilities
It is very important to make arrangements for all of your family responsibilities before your first day of work. Make sure you have plans and back-up plans for childcare. If your child is sick, you will need to have a plan for someone to care for them, so you can make it to work on time. Research local daycare options and talk to family members and friends about helping out. If a family emergency should occur, while you are at work, it is important you have another family member or friend available to handle the situation until your shift is over.
4. Start with a Great Attitude
Go into your new job with a great attitude to ensure the most success possible in your new placement. Understand that the company does not owe you anything. You accepted the position and the company will expect you to perform the job to the best of your abilities.
5. Look at Your Schedule
Before your first day, make sure to reschedule any interferences with your work schedule. Try to schedule all doctor’s appointments, court dates, and other meetings outside of your normal work hours. If you have pre-scheduled court dates during work hours, notify your employer as soon as you are aware.
You should also look at your day-to-day schedule and make sure you are getting enough sleep and setting your alarm early enough so you can consistently make it to work on time.
Planning ahead for your first day of work can be very helpful in making sure you are successful in your new placement. By taking these quick and easy steps, you can help yourself avoid several key roadblocks to making your new job last long-term.