by Sarah Belle

Created on: March 11, 2007   Last Updated: November 16, 2011

Your first week at a new job can be daunting. Even if you've worked part-time before, stepping into your first full-time job after leaving school or graduating from University is huge milestone.

Many people share the same concerns on their first day at work: Will I get lost? Will I be asked questions that I can't answer? Will I be asked to do a task that is over my head? Will my boss be a tyrant?

The fear of the unknown can be overwhelming but you can survive it by keeping your cool and knowing a few basic tips!

Tip #1. Prior preparation can be helpful. If you have time, why not visit your workplace in advance: You can confirm the traveling time to ensure you won't be running late on your first day. Also have a wander around the local area, so that you'll feel more comfortable and familiar with your surroundings when you start work.

Tip #2. Take notes. Ask for a notepad early in the day and write down any important notes. There's so much to learn that it would be impossible for you to remember everything and if you're nervous, that makes it even harder to absorb information.

* If you're working a desk job, remember to write down your phone number and also the Receptionist's number.

* Write down the names of your co-workers (and their titles, if applicable).

Tip #3: Many companies have a "buddy" system and will assign you a mentor. If they don't, you'll probably find that someone adopts you anyway and makes it their duty to look after you and show you around. Listen to what they have to say and don't be afraid to ask questions. When do they take lunch breaks? Do they eat at their desks or go out? In the first week you should try to fit in with the company culture.

Tip #4: New employees are often on "probation" for a few months and it is likely that you will be more closely scrutinized than other workers. While other employees might talk on the phone to their friends or take long smoke-breaks doesn't mean that you can get away it at this early stage, you need to prove yourself to be hard working.

Tip #5: Be prepared to do seemingly menial tasks. Even if you have a degree, you will still be learning from the ground up. Also, it can take awhile for your boss to trust you, so expect to be given simple (often boring) tasks at first. If you accept these tasks with enthusiasm and give 100% you'll go a long way in impressing those around you and ensuring that you will be given more responsibility as times goes on.

Tip #6: To succeed in any industry, the golden rule

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