How to Have the Best First Day at Your Internship or Job

Put Your Best Foot Forward With These First Impression Musts Whether it’s the first day of school or the start date at your internship or job, there’s no doubt that the beginning of something new can be intimidating. For students who are new to internships or just entering the workforce, the sense of anxiety can increase tenfold. However, it is possible to have a great first day, especially if you prepare and plan in advanced. Keep reading for some top tips to start your job or internship off on the right note and walk into your new gig with confidence. Iron Out the DetailsHave a clear understanding of exactly what is expected of you on day one long before your first day actually begins. Usually, a supervisor will include basic logistical information such as when and where to arrive and if there is any material you need to bring on your first day. However, if you did not receive this information, do not be afraid to ask for it yourself. Make sure you know exactly when you need to arrive, where you are expected to go, and if you need any supplies or documents on day one. If you’re unclear about the dress code, be sure to ask about that as well. Troubleshoot Your Morning RoutineA well-planned morning can help get any day off to a promising start. Get plenty of sleep the night before and give yourself at least one to two hours in the morning to wake up, review your daily schedule, and eat a balanced breakfast. Packing your bag and laying out your outfit the previous night can be a useful way to save time, but double check in the morning to avoid leaving anything important at home. Give yourself enough time to arrive at your internship or job on schedule, even if there is traffic or transit delays. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask QuestionsNo one is expected to know everything on day one. For your first few days at a new job or internship, focus on observing as much as possible. Notice how your supervisor completes different processes and ask questions along the way to ensure you catch every detail. While it can feel intimidating, asking thoughtful questions can help demonstrate your engagement with the work you’re presented with and illustrate your ability to pay attention to small details. Take NotesIn order to ensure that you’re retaining all of the information you are presented with during your first few days, be sure to take detailed notes. Every time a supervisor walks you through something, jot down the steps needed to get from point A to point B. You can also write down any questions that come up along the way and send them to your supervisor in order to clarify. Throughout your job or internship, use these notes as a resource whenever you need a refresher on protocol. Know Your Neighbors Make an effort to get to know the coworkers and other interns that you will be working with. Even if there isn’t much crossover between your roles, connecting with your peers can help you get the most out of your experience in several ways. Having office friendships can help drive enthusiasm and engagement at work and it’s also an easy way to build out your professional network. Strive to learn everyone’s name and opt-in to opportunities to socialize with your peers. By setting yourself up for success and coming in with an eagerness to learn, students and young professionals can feel confident that they are making strong first impressions at their jobs and internships. If you are interested in learning more about internship options, our team of college admissions counselors can help you identify opportunities that align with your interests and goals.