Questions to Ask on the First Day of Work
Essential questions to ask on your first day of work to understand your role, company culture, and set yourself up for success in your new position.
1What are the most important things I should focus on in my first week?
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What are the most important things I should focus on in my first week?
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Why this works
This question helps you understand immediate priorities and expectations, allowing you to make a strong first impression and contribute effectively from day one.
2Who are the key people I should meet and work with?
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Who are the key people I should meet and work with?
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Why this works
This question helps you identify important relationships and stakeholders, which is crucial for building effective working relationships and understanding the organizational structure.
3What are the company's core values and how do they influence daily work?
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What are the company's core values and how do they influence daily work?
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Why this works
This question reveals the company's culture and values, helping you understand how to align your work and behavior with organizational expectations.
4What tools and systems will I be using regularly?
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What tools and systems will I be using regularly?
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Why this works
This question helps you understand the technical requirements of your role and identify what you need to learn to be effective in your position.
5What are the typical work hours and expectations for this role?
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What are the typical work hours and expectations for this role?
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Why this works
This question helps you understand the work schedule and expectations, allowing you to plan your time and meet performance standards.
6How does communication typically work within the team and company?
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How does communication typically work within the team and company?
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Why this works
This question reveals the communication norms and preferences, helping you understand how to effectively communicate with colleagues and managers.
7What are the biggest challenges or opportunities facing the team right now?
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What are the biggest challenges or opportunities facing the team right now?
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Why this works
This question helps you understand the current context and priorities, allowing you to contribute meaningfully to team goals and objectives.
8How will my performance be evaluated and what are the key metrics?
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How will my performance be evaluated and what are the key metrics?
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Why this works
This question helps you understand performance expectations and evaluation criteria, allowing you to focus on the most important aspects of your role.
9What resources are available for learning and professional development?
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What resources are available for learning and professional development?
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Why this works
This question reveals the company's commitment to employee development and helps you identify opportunities for growth and learning.
10What are the company's policies on remote work, time off, and benefits?
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What are the company's policies on remote work, time off, and benefits?
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Why this works
This question helps you understand the company's policies and benefits, allowing you to plan your work and personal life accordingly.
11How does the team typically handle meetings and collaboration?
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How does the team typically handle meetings and collaboration?
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Why this works
This question reveals the team's working style and collaboration preferences, helping you understand how to effectively participate in team activities.
12What are the company's goals and how does my role contribute to them?
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What are the company's goals and how does my role contribute to them?
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Why this works
This question helps you understand the bigger picture and how your work fits into the company's overall objectives and strategy.
13What are the common pitfalls or mistakes I should avoid?
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What are the common pitfalls or mistakes I should avoid?
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Why this works
This question helps you learn from others' experiences and avoid common mistakes that could impact your success in the role.
14How does the company handle feedback and performance reviews?
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How does the company handle feedback and performance reviews?
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Why this works
This question reveals the company's approach to feedback and performance management, helping you understand how to seek and receive feedback effectively.
15What are the company's expectations for professional conduct and behavior?
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What are the company's expectations for professional conduct and behavior?
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Why this works
This question helps you understand the company's standards and expectations for professional behavior and conduct.
16How does the company support work-life balance and employee well-being?
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How does the company support work-life balance and employee well-being?
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Why this works
This question reveals the company's commitment to employee well-being and helps you understand the support available for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
17What are the company's policies on diversity, equity, and inclusion?
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What are the company's policies on diversity, equity, and inclusion?
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Why this works
This question shows your commitment to diversity and inclusion and helps you understand the company's values and policies in this area.
18How does the company handle innovation and new ideas?
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How does the company handle innovation and new ideas?
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Why this works
This question reveals the company's approach to innovation and creativity, helping you understand how to contribute new ideas and suggestions.
19What are the company's expectations for professional development and career growth?
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What are the company's expectations for professional development and career growth?
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Why this works
This question helps you understand the company's approach to career development and identify opportunities for growth and advancement.
20Is there anything else I should know to be successful in this role?
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Is there anything else I should know to be successful in this role?
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Why this works
This question gives your manager an opportunity to provide any additional information or advice that could help you succeed in your new position.
Best Practices for First Day Questions
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Start with Immediate Priorities
Begin by understanding what you need to focus on in your first week and who the key people are, as this will help you make a strong first impression.
Focus on Company Culture
Ask about the company's values, communication norms, and working style to understand how to align your behavior and work with organizational expectations.
Explore Development Opportunities
Understand the resources available for learning and professional development, as this shows your commitment to growth and success.
Question Sequences
The Priority Setter
The Culture Explorer
Common Pitfalls
Don't Ask About Salary or Benefits
Avoid asking about compensation or benefits on the first day, as these topics are typically discussed during the hiring process or in HR orientation.
Avoid Asking About Personal Information
Don't ask about personal details or private information. Focus on professional topics and work-related questions.
Don't Make Assumptions About the Role
Ask open-ended questions that allow your manager to describe the role and expectations rather than making assumptions about what you'll be doing.