You’ve gotten through the interview and you’ve got the job. First off, congratulations, there are plenty of people who would love to be in your shoes and this is the start of a fantastic new career opportunity for you. But proving you deserve the job still isn’t over. Your first few days at a new company is hugely important, now is the time to show in practice what you discussed in your interview and to prove you’re a good fit for the team.

It’s good to be nervous, it shows that you care, but its time to make a great first impression. So here are our recruitment expert’s top tips for your first few days.

Research, research, research

Yes, you may have already done plenty of research before the interview but refresh your memory. There may have been new articles and publications from the company and you will have forgotten some of the information you learnt before getting the job. Having an up-to-date knowledge will show your awareness and engagement with the company. Proving you have a strong work ethic from the get-go.

Be early but not too early

It may be an obvious one but it’s also important. Set off with plenty of time and plan your route before your first day. You may have done that drive before but you may not have done it at rush hour. Use google maps to map the best route and change the arrival time to include the average traffic delay. You also don’t want to turn up to the office too early. You may be asked to come to the office a little later on the first day so make sure you respect that. The team obviously want the time to set up for the day and prepare for you joining before you get there. 15 minutes early is usually a good time to aim for.

Introduce yourself

You will most likely be shown around the office on your first day and introduced to most of your colleagues but still try to take the time to properly introduce yourself to people. Be proactive and make the effort and try and remember as many names as possible. Making yourself familiar with your colleagues and comfortable talking to the team as early as possible will mean you feel a member of the team quickly.

Bring along anything they may need

Having all the stationary you would need with you on your first day will give the right first impression. While it is unlikely you will be left with nothing, being prepared shows your organisation skills. In addition bring any documents the company may need for the accountancy or HR team, passport details, national insurance etc. Although you may not be expected to bring these things its good to show initiative and get as many of the laborious admin tasks completed as soon as possible.

Stay later

It’s that simple, show your dedication by staying later for your first few days on the job. The last thing you want is to be seen as the first one out the door as soon as the clock hits 5 pm. Make arrangements so you can be home slightly later than usual. It will show your dedication to the job and the tasks you’ve been set.

Ask Questions

You want to be as engaged with the company as you can in the first few days, ask plenty of questions to get to grips with everyone’s roles, responsibilities and the team dynamic. The team will be glad you’re asking questions and showing interest and it means you will feel settled in even quicker. But don't ask questions you should already know the answer to. Like we said before do the research before stepping into the office.

Network

Both in and out of the office networking is a great tool for meeting new people in your industry and organisation. Take advantage of any meetings you could attend, conferences and training and even after work drinks. All these will be great opportunities to learn from new people and keep up to date with current industry trends. After work drinks is a great opportunity to socialise with your new colleagues and show your personality out of work mode, but make sure you don’t turn after work drinks into a bad hangover and bad first impressions.

This is a really exciting time and you want to make the most of it. Relax, listen more than talk and get to grips with your new career.