Life & Work Skills

How to Prepare the Night Before Starting a New Job

The first day on a new job is always the scariest. Meeting dozens of new people and attempting to remember all of their names, learning your way around, trying to figure out exactly what your responsibilities are — it’s a daunting day no matter what field you’re in. Set yourself up for success by prepping the night before (you’ll thank us at 6am the next day!).

 

Don’t just pick out your clothes — try them on

Everyone knows a major timesaver and #lifehack is choosing, pressing, and setting out your clothes the night before to prevent that morning rush. Definitely do this before your first day, but take it a step further by trying on your entire outfit first — especially if you haven’t worn it in a while. You might notice a hole or missing button, plus you have the opportunity to test drive shoes and jewelry, too.

 

Pack the essentials

A perfectly packed work bag shows your new employer that you are prepared. Make sure you have a notebook (you’ll be taking LOTS of notes as you become familiar with the company), a light snack in case you get those 3pm hunger pangs (granola bars are a working girl’s best friend), and something personal to make your workspace feel a little bit more like home.

 

Source: @inmyseams

 

Map your route

Your first task as a new employee is showing up to your new job early and ready for the day. Plan your route out ahead of time to see how long it will take you to get there, then budget in an extra 15 minutes for traffic, subway delays, and other emergencies.

While you’re at it, fill your car up with gas and load some extra money on your Metropass.

 

Review your onboarding paperwork

Chances are you received a stack of documents after accepting your new position. You may have reviewed your benefits and happily signed, but it’s a good idea to review these one more time before your first day. Do they mention bringing your laptop on the first day? Did your boss make a reservation to take you out for lunch? Show your boss that you’re on top of things right from the start.

 

 

Source: brightenmade

 

Quickly Google your new company

You nailed the job interview and landed the gig, which means you probably did your research on your new company. Give your company a Google search to catch yourself up on any new updates so you’ll be in-the-know around the water cooler from day one.

 

Practice some self-care

Tossing and turning in bed is the last thing you should be doing the night before starting your new job. You earned this and you’re prepared for the day — take some time for you. Meet up with friends for dinner, read a chapter of a book, or soak in a bath with an excessive number of bath bombs.

 

What do you do the night before starting a new job? Let us know in the comments.