Getting Ready for Work
Accepting a Job and What’s Involved
Congratulations, you’ve been offered a job! But what happens next? In this blog, we’ll walk you through the process of job offers and accepting (or not), and getting ready for your first day.
Are you happy?
Usually initial job offers will be verbal, either over the phone or via the recruiter.
Before you accept, make sure that you know all about the job, including salary, benefits, training and hours. Firm up all the details and make sure they’re the same as what was advertised or discussed previously. If so, thank the employer and let them know that you’d be delighted to accept the position.
If you’re not happy – maybe you’ve had a change of heart, something about the team or the organisation isn’t sitting well with you, or they’re refusing to provide written details or they’re different to what was advertised – then it’s perfectly OK to decline. Just remember to be polite (you don’t want to burn any bridges), and thank them for the opportunity.
Ask for written confirmation
Even if it’s just an email, get written confirmation of your offer, the terms and conditions, your start date, and any other important information.
Reply in writing to let your new employer know you’re accepting the position. It’s a great habit to start keeping written records of everything; you never know when you’ll need them down the track.
Be ready to start
Pick up your uniform if you need one and make sure it fits. If there is no uniform, make sure what you’re wearing is professional, fit for purpose, and meets any Workplace Health & Safety requirements.
Show up for any training that’s required before you start.
Figure out how you’ll get to work, know when you can take breaks, and take food with you if necessary.
Set your alarm for your first day (being late won’t make a great impression!).
Things to remember on your first day
You might be asked to provide information for the Human Resources team to ensure that any contracts are drawn up correctly and that you’ll get paid.
So even if you’ve completed some paperwork beforehand, it might be worth taking a long a few essentials when you start work, such as:
- ID (a driver’s license, for example)
- Proof of address
- Emergency contact details
- Tax File Number
- Bank account details
- Superannuation fund details
Find out if your employer needs anything else to ensure your first day at work goes smoothly (and so will your first pay day).
Know your rights and responsibilities
Check with Fair Work and your new company’s policies and procedures so that you’re informed about what’s OK and what’s not.
You can read more blogs on finding, applying for, and securing work on our website here.