Starting a new job is an exciting milestone. You’ve just passed the interviews and signed the contract. Now, it’s time to dive in.
The first day on the job can often feel overwhelming for new hires. Yet, it remains a crucial part of an employee’s work life. Research shows that companies with a high-quality onboarding process have up to a 103% chance of having good new-hire retention and employee engagement.1 A productive first day at work will greatly benefit the employee and business.
However, ensuring you feel supported from the get-go isn’t just about what your employer can offer—it can also be about what you ask for! Interestingly, asking questions is one of the best ways to strengthen work relationships and grow as an employee.2
So, make sure to take advantage of your first day, when you have the fullest attention of your manager, trainer, and team. By asking the right questions, you’re more likely to feel the support you need in this new chapter of your career.
Questions to Ask on Your First Day at Work
What questions should you ask on the first day at a new job? Here are the best ones to help kickstart your journey!
1. “What do I need to accomplish within my first week?”
Let’s start small. You will probably make the most mistakes on the job during your first week, especially after absorbing so much information about your new tasks, workmates, and company. That’s normal since you’re getting used to your new environment and trying to create a good work routine for yourself.
To address this, preparing beforehand and doing your homework are obviously necessary tasks. But you can also avoid mistakes by asking your manager to name specific goals that you must accomplish at least in the first week, when much of the learning happens.
2. “What goals do I need to achieve within the first 90 days?”
During your first 90 days, or 6 months in some companies, it’s essential to think beyond your immediate tasks and consider the bigger picture. Ask your manager what they envision for your growth during this period.
For example, do they expect you to be able to work independently after two weeks? Will you have more responsibilities by your third month? What skills or knowledge should you focus on developing to be successful within this timeline? Asking these questions will help you understand your manager’s plans for your career. Knowing they are prepared to help you grow in the company will make you feel more supported.
3. “Which tasks have a higher urgency or priority?”
Companies usually have tasks that demand more attention than others across all seasons. Your team won’t expect you to handle the high-stakes parts of the job in your first week. But on your first day, you can already ask about the various levels of importance of your given tasks.
For example, cleaning personnel can ask which areas require regular attention and which can be addressed less frequently. Similarly, clerical and legal staff can ask which deadlines or paperwork cannot be delayed or compromised.
Communicating which tasks should be prioritized benefits both you and the company. You’ll be able to budget your time and energy well while guaranteeing that the company’s most important operations are given the most focus. Plus, talking about the company’s challenges helps build work relationships. You’ll feel like you’re part of the team even more because you already know the kinds of obstacles they face.
4. “When and how will you assess my performance?”
Knowing how your company’s assessment system works is one of the best pieces of information to have to ensure that you’re doing your job well. It’s one thing to do your best at a job, and it’s another to do your best based on what really matters.
Ask when the assessments will happen. This is usually done after 3 or 6 months. Also, ask what specific metrics will be used, such as observing deadlines, client or customer satisfaction, or volume of work done.
5. “How often do you want me to update you?”
The first weeks of the job usually demand extra communication. It’s not ideal if your manager struggles to contact you because you’re too focused on your work, nor is it helpful to frequently send updates to your team when they need uninterrupted time to focus on their tasks. Clearing expectations on updating and communicating will create a good, supportive environment for you and your coworkers.
6. “Who can I immediately go to if I need help?”
As you begin your job, you will need clarification on different processes. This may include practical concerns such as requesting access to tools and equipment, reasonable accommodation for your disability, and the company’s overall system of approvals. You may also encounter questions about internal procedures or understanding company benefits, which can feel overwhelming as you settle in.
All institutions have varying roles and hierarchies. Some will have your direct manager taking care of all your concerns. For others, it will be smoother if you engage directly with other departments. Once you gain a better understanding of the company’s culture, you’ll know where to ask for help with specific challenges.
7. “What tools do I need to accomplish my tasks?”
All companies require specific tools. In today’s digital world, almost all industries use communication apps or management software to optimize operations. There’s a good chance that you’ll undergo training for the main tools you’re expected to use for your job. But as you start your work, you’ll identify certain tasks that will benefit from unofficial tools that may be less essential but are still significantly helpful.
8. “How can I share my ideas?”
This shows the initiative to contribute to the company’s success beyond your assigned tasks, and it gives your manager an idea of how to support your growth. This will be helpful in future team meetings, regular one-on-one check-ins, feedback forms, or even casual conversations. Moreover, asking this question demonstrates your willingness to fully participate, which not only helps you navigate the company’s communication culture but also fosters trust.
9. “Are there any special tips or unspoken rules I should know about?”
All organizations have special rules that are not written down on official documents. You might notice these things after a few weeks on the job. You can ask questions about where people spend their breaks, pro tips on how to do a specific task, or even hobby-based groups. By being sensitive to the dynamics of the team you’re joining, you’ll be able to enhance your work and relationships as early as possible.
10. “Where do you eat for lunch? Can I join you?”
Having lunch with co-workers will help you build a good rapport among your team. In fact, researchers have found that sharing meals in the workplace boosts productivity for entire groups.3 If you feel comfortable, ask this before your first lunch break to avoid eating alone and ease into the team’s culture.
Their response may also give insight into local food spots or team traditions, making you feel more welcome. It’s a simple way to show openness and start integrating into the group right away. So, make sure that you take advantage of asking about your first-day lunch, where the first moments of bonding and even mentoring are shared.
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References:
- “Creating an Effective Onboarding Learning Experience: Strategies for Success – Brandon Hall Group.” Brandon Hall Group, 22 Nov. 2024, brandonhall.com/creating-an-effective-onboarding-learning-experience-strategies-for-success.
- Smith, Ann Kowal. “Want to Stay Relevant at Work? Ask Great Questions.” Forbes, 3 June 2024, www.forbes.com/sites/annkowalsmith/2023/08/28/want-to-stay-relevant-at-work-ask-great-questions.
- “Groups That Eat Together Perform Better Together | Cornell Chronicle.” Cornell Chronicle, 19 Nov. 2015, news.cornell.edu/stories/2015/11/groups-eat-together-perform-better-together.
