Starting a new job can feel overwhelming. From meeting new colleagues to understanding company systems and workplace culture, your first week is packed with challenges. You want to make a strong first impression while learning how everything operates. A little preparation and the right mindset can make this transition smoother and set you up for long-term success.
To help you feel confident and capable from day one, here are nine tips to survive—and thrive—during your first week at work.
1. Start building relationships.
One of the most important things you can do in your first week is start building relationships. Your colleagues will be your daily support system, so making connections early can help you feel more comfortable and confident. Take advantage of onboarding sessions and coffee breaks to introduce yourself to team members. Don’t hesitate to start conversations—ask your coworkers how long they’ve been with the company, what they enjoy about their role, or even if they have recommendations for the best lunch spots nearby.
Establishing rapport with your team can also lead to mentorship opportunities. Having an experienced colleague guide you through your first few months can accelerate your professional network.
2. Stay organized from day one.
Your first week is the perfect time to develop good organizational habits that will serve you well throughout your career. Take advantage of any downtime by setting up your email folders, creating to-do lists, and arranging your workspace with essential office supplies. A clutter-free and structured environment will make it easier to stay focused and productive.
It’s also a good idea to update your professional online presence. Refresh your LinkedIn profile with your new job title and connect with your new colleagues. If your company uses internal communication tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams, familiarize yourself with them to streamline your day.
3. Soak up information and take notes.
Your first week is all about learning. You’ll be introduced to new processes, software, and workplace expectations, and it can be a lot to take in. Rather than trying to remember everything at once, take detailed notes during meetings, training sessions, and casual conversations. Writing things down will help reinforce key details and minimize the need to ask repetitive questions later.
In addition to listening carefully, observe how your colleagues interact, how decisions are made, and how tasks are prioritized. Understanding the company’s workflow will help you adapt quickly.
4. Say “yes” to all invitations.
One of the best ways to integrate into a new workplace is by being open to social opportunities. Whether it’s a team lunch, a virtual coffee chat, or an after-work event, accepting invitations helps you build strong relationships and understand office culture. These informal gatherings are valuable opportunities to connect with coworkers on a more personal level, which can lead to better collaboration and a happier workplace.
If you’re working remotely, don’t hesitate to join virtual happy hours or team-building activities. Engaging with your team outside work fosters friendship and makes the day more enjoyable.
5. Establish expectations with your boss.
Understanding what’s expected of you from the start is crucial for long-term success. Schedule a quick meeting with your manager to discuss your key responsibilities, performance goals, and how your success will be measured. Knowing what’s most important to your boss will help you prioritize tasks effectively and demonstrate initiative.
If your company has formal performance reviews, ask about the evaluation criteria. Being proactive about goal-setting shows you're serious about your role and eager to contribute.
6. Ask questions (at the right time)
It’s completely normal to have a lot of questions during your first week at a new job. However, the key is knowing when and how to ask them. Instead of interrupting a meeting or a presentation, jot down your questions and wait to see if they're answered naturally. If not, bring them up at an appropriate time.
Additionally, take advantage of internal resources like company handbooks, training materials, or knowledge bases. Many of your questions may already have answers there, which will save you and your colleagues time.
7. Learn office politics and avoid gossip
Every workplace has its own culture, and navigating office dynamics and etiquette wisely is essential. Before jumping into conversations about company policies or suggesting big changes, take the time to observe how decisions are made and who the key influencers are. Pay attention to how different teams collaborate and the overall communication style of the organization.
Most importantly, steer clear of office gossip. Engaging in workplace drama can damage your reputation and create unnecessary stress. Instead, focus on building positive and professional relationships.
8. Dress for success.
First impressions matter, and your appearance plays a role in how colleagues and managers perceive you. Plan your outfits, choosing attire that aligns with the company dress code. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than too casual.
Comfort is also key—especially if you’re feeling nervous. Choose outfits that make you feel confident and at ease. Bring an extra layer to help you adjust to changes in office temperature.
9. Accept all help and advice.
Even if you’re highly skilled, embracing advice and assistance from colleagues can make your job easier. Accepting guidance demonstrates humility and a willingness to learn - qualities managers and team members appreciate.
When someone offers help, take the opportunity to learn from their experience. They may even share insights that will help you avoid common mistakes. Building a reputation as a team player will benefit your career in the long run.
