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3 Things You Should Do Before Your First Day on the Job

3 Things You Should Do Before Your First Day on the Job

Once you land a job, it feels great. It’s easy to feel like you’ve gotten through the hard part. Getting through the interview process and landing the job is hard work, but you aren’t quite done yet. Your first day means navigating a lot of new territory and new personalities. There are some things you’ll want to do to give yourself the best chance of making a solid first impression.  

Do a Test Run of Your Commute 

Never rely on what your phone’s GPS app tells you about how long it takes to get to your new job. Those apps rely on averages based on a lot of data points. They can also miss new construction. Instead, drive the route in advance during what will be your new commute time. On your first day, give yourself an extra 20-30 minutes to make that drive. Showing up early for your shift can only make you look good. 

Prepare Your Elevator Pitch 

You’ll spend a lot of time talking with new people on your first day. Bone up on local sports and think of a couple of personal anecdotes. These are easy fallbacks when the conversation goes on for more than a minute or two. For short chats, however, you want an elevator pitch. An elevator pitch is a few sentences that sum up who you are and what you do.  

Pick Out Comfortable Clothes 

You should always dress appropriately for the job. That doesn’t mean you need to be uncomfortable. Choose an outfit from your closet that you know is comfortable. If you feel comfortable physically, it’s easier to act confident when interacting with others.  

Start Your New Job Out Right!

No matter what job you land, the process doesn’t end with the job offer. You still need to keep your head in the game for the first day. How you interact will set the tone for how people see you for a long time. Showing up on time or early for work helps cement your perception with supervisors or managers. Your elevator pitch gives you a ready response for those quick conversations. Dressing comfortably gives you one less distraction and lets you act more confident.  

Are you ready to test your firstday skills? Let GPS help find the right position for you.  

 

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