Having and Keeping the Job : Starting the Job

Some important elements of your first day at a job will help you keep that job.

  • Dress Professionally
  • Bring Form I9 Proof Of Identity documents like
    • U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card or Permanent Resident Card or Alien Registration Receipt Card (Form I-551)

      OR

    • Driver’s license or ID card issued by a State that contains a photograph or information such as name, date of birth, gender, height, eye color, and address or School ID card with a photograph or Voter’s registration card or U.S. Military card
      AND
    • U.S. Social Security Card or Original or certified copy of birth certificate

  • Bring a small pocket notebook.
  • Have your social security number written down or memorized.
  • Plan your commute
    Get the address of your new job, and plan how you will get there. If possible, go there the day before so you know how long it will take to get there.
  • Be at least 20 minutes early
    Showing up early demonstrates reliability and professionalism


Having and Keeping the Job : What to Expect on a First Day

  • Introduce yourself:
    Greet everyone with a smile and actively introduce yourself to your new team members

  • Meet with your direct supervisor
    Discuss his expectations and how he would like things done.

  • Filling out Employment Documents
    • Your Contact Information
    • Form I9 and E-Verify
    • Form W4

  • Ask questions:
    Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if they seem basic, to clarify your understanding.

  • Positive attitude:
    Maintain a positive and friendly demeanor throughout the day. People like to work with a positive person.

  • Take notes:
    In your notebook, jot down important details, names, and key information shared during your first day


Having and Keeping the Job : Day to Day Work tips

  • It will all seem fun in the beginning, but will eventually it will not be fun. This is why you get paid….because it is NOT fun! If it were fun, you would be paying them!
  • Your boss may want you to do things that annoy you. He is paying your check. Just do your job and remember that.
  • You might think your boss is an idiot, but he is the idiot paying you to be there. Keep your mouth shut and your poor attitude to yourself.
  • Always be a little early. Always leave a little later. This could be the difference you need when people get laid off…you will be kept….the person who always is late or leaves early will be fired.
  • Always be pleasant and happy even when you don’t feel that way. Fake it if you have to. Employers keep the happy people, and fire the unpleasant miserable people.