Your First Day on the Job

• Be on time (check transport arrangements and starting time).
• If you are ill, call the employer before starting time. Attendance is very important in keeping a job.
• Dress appropriately for the job. In all cases, look clean and tidy.
• Keep personal phone calls to an absolute minimum – preferably NIL.
• If you smoke, find out about regulations and smoking arrangements in your workplace.
• Find out where and when to take breaks and lunch. Don’t overstay.
• Listen carefully, observe and take notes.
• Find out who your supervisor is – you are usually only responsible to one person.
• Ask questions when you are being shown tasks – it lets the person know that you are paying attention.
• Find out where to keep your lunch and personal things and where restrooms are located.
• If no formal induction is given, ask if there are any employment administration forms to complete – income tax, superannuation, timesheets, etc
• In the beginning your opinions may not always be considered. It takes time to earn the respect of employers and workmates, but once earned you may be given more responsibility.
• If you are a school leaver or have been out of work for a long time, you may find that starting early in the morning and working a full day is quite tiring. This is normal, and you will soon get used to the longer hours.
• Overall, do your very best to make a good impression.