Your first week at a new job: what to focus on

Starting a new job is exciting and nerve-wracking in equal measure. The first week isn't about proving yourself. It's about learning and settling in.

Listen more than you talk

Resist the urge to share how things were done at your last job. Take notes, ask questions, and observe how the team works before suggesting changes.

Learn people's names

This sounds basic, but it matters more than you think. If you're bad with names, write them down after meetings. Using someone's name makes interactions feel more personal.

Understand the tools and systems

Get set up on email, Slack, project management tools, whatever the team uses. Don't be embarrassed to ask for help with access or setup. IT issues in the first week are expected.

Find out what success looks like

Ask your manager what they'd consider a good first month, and what the priorities are. This gives you clear direction and shows you're thinking about delivering value.

Don't skip lunch with colleagues

Even if you'd rather eat at your desk, make the effort to socialise in the first week. These informal conversations build relationships that make everything else easier.

Be patient with yourself

You won't understand everything in week one. That's normal. The people around you know you're new and aren't expecting miracles. Focus on learning, and the confidence will follow.