Before the first day

Confirm the start time, location or login instructions, contact person, dress expectations and anything you need to bring. Plan the journey with extra time or test the remote setup before the morning.

Re-read the job description and your interview notes. Write down practical questions, but expect some answers to come through induction. Arrive ready to learn rather than trying to prove that you already know the whole job.

Week one: learn the map

Take notes, but do not pretend to understand when you do not. A precise question such as 'Could you show me which status to use after this step?' is easier to answer than waiting until several uncertainties have built up.

  • Understand your manager's priorities and how they prefer to communicate.
  • Learn the names and responsibilities of close colleagues.
  • Record systems, processes and unfamiliar terms in one place.
  • Confirm working hours, breaks, reporting lines and key policies.
  • Ask how your early progress will be reviewed.

Weeks two and three: build reliability

Focus on completing small commitments correctly and on time. Confirm priorities when new tasks arrive, communicate early if something may be late and show what you have already tried when asking for help.

Notice how the team shares information and makes decisions. Build relationships beyond the people who trained you by asking what they do and how your work connects to theirs.

EXAMPLE

A useful update is: 'I have completed the first two checks. The final record is missing an approval, so I have contacted Sam and expect to finish by 3pm. I will let you know if that changes.'

Week four: ask for direction

Request a short check-in if one is not already scheduled. Ask what is going well, what you should improve and which priorities matter most for the next month.

Bring a short record of what you have learned and completed. This is not a performance speech; it helps you and your manager identify gaps, agree expectations and prevent small misunderstandings continuing.

Create a sustainable rhythm

New-job nerves are normal, and confidence usually follows familiarity. If an expectation remains unclear, ask. If you make a mistake, report it promptly, help correct it and record what will prevent a repeat.

  • Review priorities at the start and end of each day.
  • Keep useful instructions organised and secure.
  • Ask questions close to the moment they matter.
  • Take agreed breaks and avoid creating an unsustainable pace.
  • Notice progress as well as mistakes.

QUICK ANSWERS

Frequently asked questions

How many questions should I ask in a new job?

Ask what you need to work safely and accurately. Group non-urgent questions where practical and show the notes or steps you have already checked.

When should I ask for feedback?

Use scheduled check-ins and ask earlier when an unclear expectation affects your work. A short first-month review is useful if the employer has not arranged one.

What if I make a mistake in my first month?

Raise it promptly with the right person, explain the facts, help correct it and learn the process that will prevent it happening again.