Resume submitted, interview aced, offer made and accepted - you're about to start your first job! There's a lot you need to know, though, before day one in the office, so here's a quick run down on the details you'll need to hit the ground running.
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1. Arrive Early
Make it your goal to arrive to work ten minutes early every single day, always. I know what you're thinking: is punctuality really that important? Yes, it is. People may not notice if you're ten minutes early, but they'll definitely notice if you're five minutes late. Protip: set your clocks at home fast by ten minutes. It helps.
2. Just Say No
Office attire can be tough. You want to look like yourself, and express your own style, but you also want to look professional. There are a few things, then, you'll want to banish from your office dress code to start: torn jeans and grubby sneaks, no matter how much you love them.
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3. The Paperwork
Be prepared to spend at least a few hours that first week doing loads and loads of paperwork, and be sure to bring a photo ID.
4. The Paycheck
It can sometimes take a few weeks before you get your first paycheck. Be prepared for that.
5. The Politics
Expect it to take a little time to figure out the office politics in your new workplace. It'll seem, at first, like everyone's a gossip, but chances are, they're just trying to get to know you a little.
6. Harassment is Not Okay
It's sad to say, but some of your new coworkers may try to take advantage of your newness to pay you too much of the wrong kind of attention. This is never, ever okay, so don't feel bad about nipping it in the bud. Report anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable, stat.
7. Lunch
It's a good idea to plan to brown-bag your lunch the first few days, until you get familiar with what food options are in your area.
8. Fridays
Most offices offer some sort of relaxed dress code on Friday - but before you dress down, make sure casual Friday is okay.
9. Texting
Some offices are okay with a little texting during work hours, but even if it's allowed, try to keep it at a minimum, especially at first.
10. Find It!
You might not think of it at first, but it's a good idea to locate the ladies' room right away. The person doing your orientation might not think of it, but it's important! Also important: keep some pads or tampons in your desk drawer in case Aunt Flow comes to visit while you're at work.
11. Don't Be Afraid to Ask!
If you ever have a question, don't be afraid to ask! When you're new on the job, your employer expects you to have questions, so don't feel silly asking.
Does anyone else have any other first-job advice to share?
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