Congratulations to your new job! Accepting a new job is the beginning of the next phase of your life. Your first day at the job can be very stressful so here are some tips that will make the day pass by more smoothly.

Think about what to wear and how to present yourself. If you feel confident, you will look confident to others. Whether you are driving or using public transportation, be sure to leave plenty of time to get there early. Treat your first day like a job interview, and remember, if you haven't already met all of your new co-workers, the first impression does indeed last.

Remember to smile, keep your head up and make eye contact. Be polite and friendly to everyone you encounter, whether it is the receptionist or the mailroom clerk, your colleagues, or your new boss. Introduce yourself to whomever you meet and remember that it's okay to ask questions. People generally like to help others and it usually makes them feel good about themselves.

An Expert's Opinion

Günther Illert Vice President & Director Human Resources Capgemini Consulting "Consultants must be able to act at all levels of the hierarchy, regardless of whether they talk to the management board or to employees working in the production line of a company. They also need a good deal of energy, enthusiasm, the ambition to shape things and they have to be able to work in a team. Lone warriors will not get far in our company."

Local customs are another thing one might want to consider. In some countries, such as Germany, it is customary to bring some cake to share with your new colleagues (Einstand). If you want to bring cake, do not do it on the first day but rather wait one or two days and check with one of the assistants what new colleagues usually do.