1. Plan your route

You want to arrive early so you don't have to rush inside the office. If you're driving, prepare your route on your SATNAV a few days ahead of time so you know where you're going. It's also a good idea to inquire about parking.

Taking public transportation? Again, plan your trip; know which train, tram, or bus you need to take and when they depart. Keep in mind that some public transportation providers no longer accept cash, so you may need to arrange for a pre-paid travel card.

Even if your journey is simply down the stairs, make sure you have everything you need to get started on time – or, preferably, a separate workplace – before the big day.

2. Dress to the nines.

Let's face it: initial impressions are important. And what you wear can have an impact on how others see you. You may already be aware of the dress code if you have interviewed with the employer. If you are unsure, contact the HR department before you begin (just to make sure).

Neutral colours work nicely, and you can always add a pop of colour with a patterned shirt or blouse. Shoes should complement your clothing while also being functional. Keep your jewellery simple, such as a trendy watch or stud earrings.

Most essential, you should feel at ease in your clothing, and your attire should improve your confidence. Even if you only work from home.

3. Examine the onboarding materials

The onboarding paperwork supplied by your new firm should be packed with useful information, so take the time to go over them before your first day. They should clarify your employment role and responsibilities, as well as any key performance indicators (KPIs). Your manager's name, as well as the names of your co-workers, may be mentioned.

Try to remember their names and work titles so you don't have to say, 'Can you remind me who you are?' all day.

4. Practice your elevator speech

It is possible that you will be asked to introduce yourself to your new team. If the notion of a gathering of fresh faces looking at you is intimidating, a rehearsed elevator pitch will help you deliver your introduction with ease.

An elevator pitch is often a 30-second to 1-minute speech in which you explain who you are, what your function in the firm is, and where you've previously worked. If you're comfortable doing so, you can also include some personal information, such as what you like to do in your leisure time.

5. Turn your phone to silent mode

Your employer may have a policy prohibiting the use of cell phones. If not, it's still a good idea to set it to silent mode. You don't want your concentration to be disrupted by phone calls, messages, or notifications.

Working from home is the same. Even if you're on silent in a conference, you never know when you'll be called upon to speak- something that can easily be derailed if your phone starts pinging in the background.

6. Check your imposter syndrome at the entrance

Imposter syndrome can creep up on you when you least expect it, especially on your first day of work. These sentiments of self-doubt can be devastating, but they can also be left at the door.

Have an action you take when you feel imposter syndrome creeping up on you. For example, wrapping a bracelet around your wrist and snapping it can assist to disrupt the imposter syndrome thought cycle. Another strategy is to keep a list of professional accomplishments on hand to remind yourself that you acquired the position for the correct reasons.

7. Make a list of encouraging quotes

If you're nervous about meeting your new co-workers or need some extra motivation to get through your first day, try reading inspiring quotations around the office. Here are a few of our favourite inspirational phrases to improve your confidence:

'Don't stop because you didn't come this far simply to come this far.'

8. Be positive

Because first impressions last, greeting people with a smile and a pleasant 'Hello' will enable you to be perceived as courteous, approachable, and friendly. It also demonstrates how excited you are to be a part of the firm, and smiling helps you connect with your coworkers.

Smiling also helps to conceal your anxieties and has been shown to release chemicals in the body that make us feel joyful, and when you're pleased at work, you're more likely to be motivated and productive.

9. Accept a lunch invitation

If a co-worker invites you to join them for lunch, accept their invitation. It may appear intimidating, especially if you're an introvert, but it's a terrific approach to break the ice. Not to mention determining which cafes or eateries are worth visiting in the area.

Furthermore, getting to know people in a casual situation is easier, and it helps you to develop professional contacts that may benefit your career in the future.

10. Make notes

On your first day at work, you will be introduced to new individuals, shown around your new office (if you are new to the company), and given a plethora of information. That's a lot to take in and remember in a single day. Make notes so you can refer back to them instead of racking your brain trying to find out who does what and how something is done. If you have trouble remembering names, make a seating chart to help you remember who is who.

Taking notes also shows your company that you're keen to learn how jobs are completed so you may get ahead.