First Day at Work: 25 Must-Know Steps for Freshers to Succeed Confidently
Your first day at work doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This complete guide walks you through exactly what to do before, during, and after your first day—whether you’re joining an IT company, government office, startup, or working remotely. You’ll learn what to wear, how to behave, what to carry, and how to avoid common mistakes that freshers make.
Quick First Day Checklist (Read This First)
If you’re short on time, here’s what you need to know about your first day at work:
Essential Actions
- Arrive 30–45 minutes early to account for security checks, traffic, and finding your way
- Wear formal or business casual clothing unless explicitly told otherwise
- Bring all requested documents (ID proofs, certificates, bank details, photos)
- Carry a notepad and pen to take notes during orientation and training
- Listen more than you talk and ask clarifying questions when needed
- Keep your phone on silent and avoid social media during work hours
- Join colleagues for lunch if invited—it’s important for building relationships
- Note down logins, names, and processes instead of relying on memory
The rest of this guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for each phase of your first day.
What to Do Before Your First Day at Work
Preparation is the key to reducing first-day anxiety. Here’s exactly what you should do in the days leading up to your first day at work.
1. Review Your Joining Instructions Carefully
Read your offer letter and joining email multiple times. Note down:
- Exact reporting time and location
- Name and contact of the person you’re reporting to
- Documents required (originals and copies)
- Any dress code mentioned
- Pre-joining tasks (forms, software installations, medical checkups)
2. Prepare All Required Documents
Common documents for Indian workplaces include:
- Government-issued ID proofs: Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, driving license
- Educational certificates and mark sheets (10th, 12th, degree, diploma)
- Previous employment documents: offer letter, relieving letter, experience letter, salary slips (if applicable)
- Bank account details: passbook copy or cancelled cheque
- Passport-size photographs (4–6 copies)
- Address proof if separate from ID
3. Plan Your Commute
Do a trial run if possible, especially in Indian cities where traffic can be unpredictable:
- Test your route during peak hours (morning rush time)
- Check for alternative routes in case of traffic
- Note public transport timings (metro, bus, local trains)
- Add 20–30 minutes buffer time for unexpected delays
- Save the office address and HR contact number in your phone
4. Choose Your Outfit in Advance
Select clean, well-fitting, professional clothing. When in doubt, choose formal over casual for day one:
- Men: Formal shirt, trousers, belt, closed shoes (tie optional depending on industry)
- Women: Formal shirt/blouse with trousers or skirt, salwar-kameez, or modest kurti with leggings; closed shoes or neat sandals
Avoid ripped jeans, shorts, loud prints, slogan t-shirts, or revealing clothing on day one.
5. Pack Your Essentials the Night Before
Create a checklist and pack these items:
- Notepad and multiple pens
- Water bottle (refillable)
- Small snack (energy bar or biscuits)
- Tissues, hand sanitizer, and mints
- Phone charger
- Light sweater or jacket (offices can be heavily air-conditioned)
- Lunch money or a packed lunch if unsure about canteen facilities
6. Prepare a Brief Self-Introduction
Practice a 30–60 second introduction that includes:
- Your full name
- Your new role and department
- Brief educational background or previous experience
- One or two professional interests or hobbies
Example: “Hi, I’m Priya Sharma. I’ve joined as a Junior Software Developer in the Web Applications team. I recently completed my B.Tech in Computer Science from Mumbai University. I’m particularly interested in front-end development and UI design. Outside work, I enjoy reading tech blogs and playing badminton.”
7. Research the Company Culture
Spend 30 minutes reviewing:
- Company website: mission, values, products/services
- LinkedIn company page: recent updates, employee posts
- Glassdoor or AmbitionBox reviews (take with a grain of salt, but note patterns)
- Your job description once more to refresh key responsibilities
8. Get Adequate Rest
Avoid late-night activities the day before. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep. Set multiple alarms and keep your phone charged.
What to Do on Your First Day at Work
The actual first day is a mix of orientation, system setup, introductions, and light work. Here’s how to navigate it successfully.
9. Arrive Early
Aim to reach the office building 30–45 minutes before your official reporting time. This buffer accounts for:
- Security gate checks and ID verification
- Finding the correct building/floor in large campuses
- Reception formalities and visitor passes
- Nervous first-day jitters that might slow you down
Arriving early demonstrates punctuality and gives you time to compose yourself before meeting your manager.
10. Check In at Reception or Security
When you arrive:
- State your full name clearly
- Mention you’re a new joiner and provide your department name
- Give your HR contact’s name if asked
- Follow instructions for visitor pass or temporary ID
11. Meet Your Manager and Team
Your HR or buddy will likely introduce you to your reporting manager first:
- Greet with a smile and maintain eye contact
- Use your prepared introduction
- Listen carefully to what they say about your role and immediate priorities
- Ask one or two clarifying questions if needed
When introduced to team members, remember their names (write them down immediately after) and note their roles.
12. Participate Actively in Orientation
HR orientation typically covers:
- Company history, mission, and values
- Organizational structure and key departments
- Employment policies: working hours, leave, attendance, probation
- Code of conduct and anti-harassment policies
- Benefits: insurance, provident fund, transport, canteen
- IT and security policies
13. Complete System and IT Setup
IT will set up your:
- Email ID and login credentials
- HRMS or employee portal access
- Communication tools (Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zoom)
- VPN access if applicable
- Software and tools specific to your role
Critical: Write down all usernames, temporary passwords, and setup instructions. Don’t rely on memory. Ask IT to repeat if you’re unclear about any step.
14. Submit Your Documents to HR
Hand over all requested documents:
- Keep them organized in the folder you prepared
- Confirm with HR what they’re collecting and what they’ll return
- Ask for a receipt or acknowledgment if valuable originals are submitted
- Clarify timelines for ID card, access cards, or other items
15. Observe and Learn Workplace Norms
Your first day is for observation. Pay attention to:
- How people dress (formal, business casual, or casual)
- How they address seniors (first names, Sir/Ma’am, titles)
- Lunch timing and duration
- Break room etiquette
- Meeting culture (punctuality, participation style)
- Phone usage at desks
16. Join Colleagues for Lunch or Tea
If invited to lunch or chai break, accept unless you have a genuine reason not to:
- Lunch is often a relationship-building opportunity, especially in Indian office culture
- Keep conversation light: ask about the team, projects, area, hobbies
- Avoid controversial topics: politics, religion, salary, personal relationships
- Offer to pay your share; don’t assume someone will treat you
17. Ask Questions Appropriately
It’s expected and encouraged to ask questions on your first day:
- Good questions: “Could you clarify the login process?” “Who should I reach out to for hardware issues?” “What’s the usual workflow for this task?”
- How to ask: Group related questions; ask at logical times (after explanations or in designated Q&A)
- Confirm understanding: “Just to confirm, my next steps are A, B, and C. Is that correct?”
18. Keep Your Phone on Silent
Basic phone etiquette for day one:
- Keep phone on silent or vibrate mode
- Avoid scrolling social media at your desk or during meetings
- Step out to take personal calls if urgent
- Don’t take photos of office spaces without permission
19. Stay Until the Official End Time
Even if you finish early or have little to do, stay until your official work hours end:
- Use the time to review your notes, read internal documentation, or explore the employee portal
- Don’t leave early unless explicitly told you can
- Note the time when most people leave to understand actual office culture
20. Thank Key People Before Leaving
Before you leave:
- Thank your manager for their time
- Thank your buddy or any colleague who helped you
- Thank HR for the orientation
- Confirm reporting time and any tasks for the next day
What to Do After Your First Day
The first day doesn’t end when you leave the office. What you do immediately after helps set you up for success on day two and beyond.
21. Review and Organize Your Notes
Within an hour of reaching home:
- Review all notes you took during orientation and setup
- Organize them by category: logins, contacts, policies, tasks
- Highlight anything unclear that you need to ask tomorrow
- Transfer important information to a digital document or secure note-taking app
22. List Your Open Questions
Write down anything you didn’t understand or need clarification on:
- Group questions by person to ask (manager, buddy, HR, IT)
- Prioritize: what do you need to know for day two vs. what can wait
23. Send a Brief Thank-You Message (Optional)
If your company culture is collaborative and informal, consider sending a short email or message to your manager or buddy:
- Keep it brief: 2–3 sentences
- Example: “Hi [Name], thank you for the warm welcome today. I appreciated your guidance during the setup process. Looking forward to contributing to the team. See you tomorrow.”
This is optional and depends on company culture. Don’t overthink it.
24. Reflect on What Went Well
Take five minutes for personal reflection:
- What felt comfortable? (Interactions, tasks, environment)
- What felt confusing or overwhelming? (Normal on day one)
- What do you want to improve tomorrow? (Being more proactive, asking clearer questions, managing nerves)
25. Prepare for Day Two
Set yourself up for a smoother second day:
- Lay out your clothes for tomorrow (you now know the actual dress code)
- Pack your bag: laptop (if issued), notepad, pens, documents still needed
- Adjust your wake-up time based on actual commute experience
- Get adequate rest again
How to Introduce Yourself on the First Day
Self-introductions happen multiple times on day one: with your manager, team, HR, and possibly in group settings. Here’s how to handle each.
One-on-One Introductions
When meeting someone individually:
- Stand if feasible, especially when meeting seniors
- Maintain eye contact and smile naturally
- Offer a handshake or nod (depending on cultural context and post-pandemic norms)
- Use the format: “Hi, I’m [Name]. I’ve joined as [Role] in [Team]. Nice to meet you.”
- If they share their role, acknowledge it: “Great to meet you, [Name]. I’m sure I’ll learn a lot from the [their department].”
Group Introductions
In team meetings or orientation sessions:
- Keep it concise: 30–60 seconds maximum
- Structure: Name → Role → Background → One interest
- Example: “Hi everyone, I’m Rahul Verma. I’m joining as a Business Analyst in the Finance Operations team. I completed my MBA from Delhi University last year. I’m excited to work with all of you. Outside work, I enjoy playing chess and following cricket.”
- Avoid oversharing personal details or being overly casual
Virtual Introductions (Remote First Day)
For video call introductions:
- Ensure your camera is on, well-lit, and at eye level
- Look at the camera when speaking to simulate eye contact
- Speak clearly and at a moderate pace
- Follow the same structure as in-person introductions
- End with: “Looking forward to working with everyone” or similar positive closing
Workplace Behavior & Etiquette on Day One
Professional behavior on your first day builds the foundation for how colleagues perceive you. Here are key etiquette rules.
In Meetings
In-person meetings:
- Arrive 2–3 minutes early
- Bring a notepad and pen
- Sit where indicated or choose a neutral seat (not the head of the table)
- Listen actively; don’t interrupt
- Take notes on key points and action items
- Ask questions only if invited or if something is critically unclear
- Keep your phone face down and on silent
Virtual meetings:
- Join 2–3 minutes early to test audio/video
- Keep your camera on unless instructed otherwise
- Mute your microphone when not speaking
- Use a clean, simple background or blur effect
- Look at the camera occasionally while speaking
- Use the chat for relevant questions or links, not side conversations
- Avoid eating visible meals on camera
With Seniors and Managers
- Show respect through body language: stand when they approach, maintain eye contact
- Address them formally (Sir/Ma’am or by title) until told to use first names
- Listen fully before responding
- If you disagree, do so respectfully and privately, not in group settings
- Respond promptly to emails and messages
With Peers and Colleagues
- Be friendly but professional
- Avoid gossip, complaining about the company, or speaking negatively about anyone
- Offer help when appropriate, but don’t overpromise
- Respect personal space and boundaries
Phone and Device Usage
- Keep phone on silent or vibrate throughout the day
- Avoid personal calls at your desk; step out if urgent
- Don’t browse social media, shopping sites, or YouTube during work hours
- If you must check your phone during a meeting, step out briefly
Lunch and Break Times
- Observe when most people take lunch; align with team norms
- Clean up after yourself in break rooms and canteens
- Don’t extend breaks beyond the standard duration
- If invited to lunch, participate in conversation but keep it professional
Asking Questions
- Questions are expected and encouraged during onboarding
- Ask at appropriate times: after explanations, in designated Q&A slots, or in one-on-ones
- Group related questions together
- Confirm your understanding by paraphrasing: “So, if I understand correctly…”
- Use the right channels: technical questions to peers/buddy, policy questions to HR, priorities to manager
Common First Day at Work Mistakes to Avoid
Many freshers make similar mistakes on their first day. Here’s what to avoid and why.
1. Arriving Late
Why it’s bad: Punctuality on day one signals reliability. Being late creates a negative first impression that’s hard to reverse.
Solution: Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes early to account for unexpected delays.
2. Oversharing Personal Information
Why it’s bad: Talking excessively about relationships, family problems, politics, religion, or financial issues on day one is unprofessional.
Solution: Keep conversations professional and neutral. Share interests and hobbies, not personal drama.
3. Complete Silence and Withdrawal
Why it’s bad: Not engaging at all can make you seem disinterested, unfriendly, or unapproachable.
Solution: Balance listening with appropriate participation. Ask a few questions, join lunch if invited, and engage in small talk.
4. Overconfidence and Know-It-All Attitude
Why it’s bad: Declaring “I already know this” or criticizing processes you don’t understand alienates colleagues.
Solution: Approach with humility and curiosity. Every workplace has unique processes. Be open to learning.
5. Not Taking Notes
Why it’s bad: Relying on memory leads to forgotten logins, missed instructions, and repeated questions.
Solution: Carry a notepad and write down everything: names, processes, logins, acronyms, next steps.
6. Inappropriate Dress
Why it’s bad: Showing up in casual or revealing clothes when formal is expected shows lack of judgment.
Solution: When in doubt, dress more formally on day one. You can adjust later based on actual office culture.
7. Excessive Phone Usage
Why it’s bad: Checking social media, taking personal calls, or texting during work hours signals unprofessionalism.
Solution: Keep phone on silent. Check only during breaks. Make personal calls outside office hours.
8. Not Asking Any Questions
Why it’s bad: Staying silent when confused leads to errors and shows you’re not engaged.
Solution: Ask clarifying questions when you don’t understand. It’s expected during onboarding.
9. Criticizing Previous Employers or Colleges
Why it’s bad: Speaking negatively about past experiences makes you seem ungrateful or difficult.
Solution: If asked about previous experiences, be diplomatic. Focus on what you learned, not complaints.
10. Leaving Early Without Permission
Why it’s bad: Leaving before official end time without reason shows lack of commitment.
Solution: Stay until designated end time unless explicitly told you can leave early.
First Day at Work by Job Type
Different workplaces have different cultures. Here’s what to expect based on your job type.
IT and Corporate Jobs
Culture: Structured, process-driven, often formal (varies by company).
First day typically includes:
- HR orientation covering policies, benefits, and compliance
- IT setup: email, development tools, access permissions, VPN
- Meeting your manager and team
- Assigned a buddy or mentor for initial questions
- Light onboarding tasks: reading documentation, attending training
Dress code: Business casual to formal. Safe choice: formal shirt and trousers. Observe and adjust.
Key expectations: Punctuality, professionalism, willingness to learn tools and processes, asking questions.
Startup Jobs
Culture: Informal, fast-paced, less hierarchical, flexible.
First day typically includes:
- Quick introductions (may skip formal orientation)
- Immediate hands-on work or small tasks
- Less structured onboarding; you may need to be proactive in seeking information
- Casual team lunch or coffee
Dress code: Often casual. Jeans and t-shirts may be acceptable, but go business casual on day one unless told otherwise.
Key expectations: Self-starter attitude, adaptability, comfort with ambiguity, willingness to wear multiple hats.
Government and PSU Jobs
Culture: Formal, hierarchical, process-heavy, slower pace.
First day typically includes:
- Document verification and joining formalities (can take several hours)
- Medical examination or clearance
- Attendance register signing
- Introduction to department head and senior officers
- Assigned to a section or desk
Dress code: Formal and conservative. Men: formal shirt, trousers, closed shoes. Women: formal salwar-kameez, saree, or formal western wear.
Key expectations: Respect for hierarchy (always use Sir/Ma’am), punctuality, adherence to rules, patience with bureaucratic processes.
Remote and Work-From-Home Jobs
Culture: Flexible, digital-first, communication-heavy.
First day typically includes:
- Virtual orientation via Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet
- Digital onboarding documents and e-signatures
- Slack/Teams channel introductions
- Tool training: project management software, time-tracking, communication platforms
- One-on-one video call with manager
Dress code: Smart casual for video calls. Avoid pajamas or gym wear. Top should be professional even if bottom is casual (camera doesn’t show).
Key expectations:
- Reliable internet and functional equipment (laptop, headset, webcam)
- Proactive communication: check in regularly, respond promptly to messages
- Camera on for meetings unless told otherwise
- Structured work hours to show availability
- Professional home office setup: clean background, good lighting, minimal noise
What to Wear on Your First Day at Work
Dressing appropriately on your first day shows professionalism and respect for workplace culture. Here’s a detailed guide.
General Principles
- When in doubt, dress more formally. It’s better to be slightly overdressed on day one than underdressed.
- Prioritize cleanliness and fit. Clothes should be clean, wrinkle-free, and well-fitting.
- Observe and adjust. After day one, you’ll know the actual dress code and can adapt.
For Men
Safe option for day one:
- Formal shirt (solid colors or subtle patterns): white, light blue, grey
- Formal trousers: black, navy, grey, or beige
- Belt (matching shoe color)
- Closed formal shoes: black or brown leather shoes, polished
- Socks: dark, matching trousers
- Optional: tie (for very formal environments like banking or law)
Avoid:
- Ripped or distressed jeans
- Shorts, cargo pants
- T-shirts with slogans, logos, or graphics
- Sneakers, flip-flops, sandals (unless office culture is explicitly casual)
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
For Women
Safe options for day one:
- Western formal: Formal blouse or shirt with trousers or knee-length skirt; closed shoes or neat sandals
- Indian formal: Salwar-kameez (not too bright or heavily embroidered), simple kurti with leggings or trousers, or formal saree (for government or traditional workplaces)
- Colors: neutral tones (white, black, navy, grey, beige) or subtle pastels
- Minimal jewelry and makeup
Avoid:
- Ripped jeans, very tight clothing, or very short skirts/dresses
- Sleeveless or revealing tops (some workplaces are conservative)
- Loud prints, sequins, or very bright colors on day one
- Heavy makeup or strong perfume
- Flip-flops or casual sandals (choose closed shoes or neat formal sandals)
Industry-Specific Dress Codes in India
| Industry | Typical Dress Code | Day One Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Banking, Finance, Consulting | Formal | Formal shirt/blouse, trousers/skirt, closed shoes. Tie optional for men. |
| IT Companies (Infosys, TCS, Wipro) | Business casual to formal | Formal or smart casual. Avoid jeans on day one. |
| Startups, Tech | Casual | Business casual is safe. Jeans acceptable but pair with formal shirt/top. |
| Government, PSU | Formal and conservative | Highly formal. Salwar-kameez, saree, or formal western for women. Shirt-trousers for men. |
| Creative (Ad agencies, Media) | Smart casual to casual | Business casual on day one; observe and adjust. |
Additional Tips
- Layer up: Offices can be heavily air-conditioned. Carry a light blazer, cardigan, or sweater.
- Check your company’s handbook or intranet if it mentions dress code before day one.
- Look at LinkedIn photos of employees at your company for clues about typical attire.
What to Carry on the First Day
Being well-prepared with the right items reduces stress and shows professionalism. Here’s what to pack.
Essential Documents
- Original ID proofs: Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, driver’s license
- Educational certificates: 10th, 12th, degree, diploma (originals and photocopies)
- Previous employment documents: offer letter, relieving letter, experience letter, last 3 salary slips (if joining as experienced hire)
- Bank details: passbook copy or cancelled cheque
- Passport-size photos: 4–6 copies
- Printed copy of offer letter and joining letter (keep handy at reception)
- Any pre-joining forms or documents mentioned in your email
Work Essentials
- Notepad and pens: Critical for taking notes during orientation, training, and meetings
- Laptop (if you own one and WFH): Keep charged; install requested software beforehand
- Phone charger and power bank
Personal Items
- Water bottle: Refillable, keeps you hydrated
- Small snack: Energy bar, biscuits, or fruit in case lunch is delayed
- Tissues, hand sanitizer, mints
- Comb or small grooming kit
- Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
- Prescription medications if you take any regularly
Optional but Useful
- Light sweater or jacket: For air-conditioned offices
- Umbrella: If monsoon season or unpredictable weather
- Small wallet or pouch: With emergency cash (₹500–1000) for lunch or transport
India-Specific Office Culture & Expectations
If you’re joining a workplace in India, understanding local cultural norms will help you navigate your first day smoothly.
Hierarchy and Communication
- Respect for seniority: Indian workplaces often have visible hierarchies. Juniors are expected to show respect to seniors and managers.
- Forms of address: Use “Sir” or “Ma’am” for seniors and managers unless explicitly told to use first names. With peers, first names are usually acceptable.
- Email etiquette: Use formal greetings (“Dear Sir/Ma’am” or “Hi [Name]”), clear subject lines, concise messages, and polite closings (“Regards,” “Thank you”).
- Speaking upward: When addressing managers or senior leaders, be respectful and measured. Avoid direct disagreement in public; save concerns for private conversations.
Punctuality and Attendance
- Punctuality is valued: Arriving on time (or early) is important. Chronic lateness is noticed and reflects poorly.
- Traffic and commute: Plan for unpredictable traffic, especially in metros like Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi. Leave extra time.
- Attendance registers: Some companies (especially government and older private firms) still use manual attendance registers. Sign carefully.
Lunch and Social Norms
- Lunch invitations: Joining colleagues for lunch is often expected and is an important relationship-building activity.
- Chai and tea breaks: Many offices have designated tea times. Participate if invited; it’s a social bonding ritual.
- Sharing food: It’s common for colleagues to share snacks or homemade food. Be gracious when offered.
- Dietary preferences: Be clear about dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, allergies) when relevant.
Government vs Private Sector
Government offices:
- More formal, hierarchical, and process-driven
- Strict timings with attendance tracking
- Conservative dress codes
- Paperwork-heavy; expect forms and approvals
Private sector:
- More varied culture: formal (BFSI, consulting) to casual (startups, tech)
- Performance and output-focused
- Faster pace and more flexibility
Festivals and Celebrations
- Offices often celebrate major festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas with events or dress-up days
- You may be invited to contribute to team celebrations or gifts; participation is appreciated but usually optional
Language and Communication
- English is standard in most corporate and IT workplaces
- In some offices, Hindi or regional languages are common; observe and adapt
- Don’t worry about accent or fluency; focus on clarity
Helpful Guides for New Professionals
Continue building your professional skills with these related resources:
- Business Casual Explained: Complete Dress Code Guide
- Workplace Etiquette Guide: Professional Behavior for Career Success
Watch: What to Expect on Your First Day at Work
If you want a quick overview of how professionals approach their first day, this short video explains expectations, behavior, and common mistakes clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do on my first day at work?
On your first day at work, arrive 30–45 minutes early, dress professionally, bring all requested documents, participate actively in orientation, take detailed notes during setup and training, meet your manager and teammates, and ask clarifying questions when needed. Join colleagues for lunch if invited and stay until official end time.
How early should I reach on my first day?
Aim to reach the office building 30–45 minutes before your official reporting time. This buffer accounts for security checks, finding your way, traffic delays, and any reception formalities. For remote work, log in 10–15 minutes before your first scheduled call.
What should I wear on the first day at work in India?
For men: formal shirt, trousers, belt, and closed shoes. For women: formal blouse with trousers or skirt, or salwar-kameez. Choose neutral colors and avoid ripped jeans, shorts, revealing clothing, or loud prints. When in doubt, dress more formally on day one and adjust after observing office culture.
What documents should I carry on my first day?
Carry original and photocopies of: government ID proofs (Aadhaar, PAN, passport), educational certificates (10th, 12th, degree), previous employment documents if applicable, bank details (passbook or cancelled cheque), 4–6 passport-size photos, and a printed copy of your offer letter.
What if I don’t understand something on my first day?
It’s expected and encouraged to ask questions during onboarding. Say “I’m not fully clear on this; could you please explain again?” Then repeat back your understanding to confirm. Use appropriate channels: technical questions to peers or buddy, policy questions to HR, and priorities to your manager.
Is it okay to use my phone on the first day at work?
Keep your phone on silent or vibrate mode. Avoid using it for personal calls, social media, or texting during work hours. Check your phone only during breaks. If you must take an urgent personal call, step outside the work area briefly.
What is expected on the first day in a remote job?
For remote work, ensure your laptop, internet, webcam, and microphone are working. Join virtual orientation sessions on time with your camera on. Use a clean background or blur effect. Dress in smart casual. Respond promptly to messages and communicate proactively. Keep your workspace quiet and professional.
Should I join colleagues for lunch on my first day?
Yes, if invited, you should join colleagues for lunch or tea. This is an important relationship-building opportunity, especially in Indian office culture. Keep conversation professional and light. Avoid controversial topics and be prepared to pay your share unless clearly treated.
What are common first day mistakes to avoid?
Avoid arriving late, oversharing personal information, staying completely silent, showing overconfidence, not taking notes, dressing inappropriately, excessive phone usage, criticizing previous employers, and leaving early without permission. Focus on listening, asking good questions, and observing workplace norms.
How should I introduce myself on the first day at work?
Use this format: “Hi, I’m [Name]. I’ve joined as [Role] in [Team]. I recently completed [education/previous role]. Nice to meet you.” Keep it concise (30–60 seconds), maintain eye contact, and smile naturally. In India, address seniors as Sir/Ma’am until told otherwise.
