Starting a new job can get you nervous and excited all at the same time. You want to leave a good impression on your boss and co-workers alike. The first day can either make your stay a wonderful one or lead to a rocky start. This predicament is primarily because you are in a new environment, and its nuance is still foreign to you. For you to survive your first day and subsequent days, you have to ask the right questions. This article would help you with seven questions you should ask on your first day at a new job.
Why is this important?
Asking questions go a long way to prove you are serious about the job. Getting the job shows you are qualified for the role, but asking questions proves the role is vital to you. This simple act can put you on the right track to a successful career.
What do you expect from me in the first 90 days?
Knowing what your employer wants from you is the best way to start your journey. You can’t always operate on intuition; your activities have to align with the organization's objective. To do this, you’ll have to ask your boss during your introductory phase about what they expect of you.
How would I be evaluated?
Besides knowing what they expect from you, you should also be aware of the evaluation process. In addition to that, this would help you prepare optimally for when your performance would be under review. Furthermore, it would help you work on areas where improvement is needed.
Who would I be reporting to?
Every organization has an official hierarchy of how information flows within the office; you should be aware of this. You should know who you report directly to, who is next in command, and who to meet when you need something. If it’s not your direct boss doing the hiring, ask that they introduce you to your boss to begin your professional relationship.
What should I consider as a daily task?
While you may be aware of your responsibilities and the reason you got hired, you may not know your daily tasks. To keep you from being unproductive and off track, you must ask what your day-to-day job entails. Also, ensure to ask about how to go about these tasks to maximize productivity.
How do people like to communicate in the office?
Communication styles vary depending on the company you are working for, so it’s essential to know which is attainable at your new job. Some organizations take a less traditional route for communication, while others are big on formality. Make sure you are aware of which style is acceptable to avoid offending your colleagues or your boss.
What time do we resume, and what time do we close?
If it was not clear in your employment contract, it is important to know your working hours. You may ask the following questions:
- What time do I resume?
- Is there a fine for coming late?
- When does work close?
- Do we work on weekends?
Can I join you for lunch?
Last on our list of questions to ask on your first day is, "can I join you for lunch?" Sooner or later, you’d need to make friends in the office; the first day is the best time to start. Ask your co-workers if you can join them for lunch and get to know each other more. During lunch, you get to ask questions you might not be comfortable asking your boss.
These are all critical questions to ask on your first day at a new job. They would set you up for a seamless working experience and help manage your expectations.