102 Questions to Ask on the First Day of the Job

So you’ve landed the job. Congratulations! Now it’s time to show up on your first day and make a good impression. One of the best ways to do that is to come prepared with questions. By asking questions, you show your new employer that you’re interested in the position and that you’re taking the initiative to learn more about the company and what they do.

I’ve put together a list of some good questions to ask on your first day of work. Trust me, your new boss will be impressed!

Your Role and Responsibilities

  1. Could you walk me through my primary tasks for the next few weeks?
  2. Who should I look to as a mentor or for guidance within the team?
  3. Are there specific projects I will be taking over or contributing to immediately?
  4. What are the most common challenges faced in this role, and how are they typically addressed?
  5. How does this position contribute to the overall success of the department/company?
  6. In what ways will my performance be evaluated?
  7. Who are the key stakeholders for my role that I should be aware of?
  8. Are there any ongoing issues in the role that need immediate attention?
  9. What resources are available to help me perform my duties effectively?
  10. What procedures should I follow if I encounter a problem or need assistance?
  11. Can you define the boundaries of my autonomy and decision-making?
  12. What would you say are the non-negotiables of doing my job well?
  13. Is there a preferred mode of communication for internal queries or inputs?
  14. Are there any skills or knowledge areas that I should prioritize developing?
  15. What are the short-term and long-term expectations of my role?
  16. Is there an overview or documentation of my role that I can review?
  17. Are there regular meetings or check-ins scheduled for my role?

Company Culture and Values

  1. Can you describe the company’s culture in your own words?
  2. What are the core values of the company, and how do they manifest in daily operations?
  3. How does the company celebrate successes or milestones?
  4. Are there company traditions or social events that I should be aware of?
  5. How does the company support personal growth and professional development?
  6. What is the company’s approach to work-life balance?
  7. Can you share some examples of how the company handles conflicts or challenges?
  8. How does the company support diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
  9. Is there a preferred approach to giving and receiving feedback?
  10. How does the company encourage innovation and creativity?
  11. Are there internal communication platforms or networks I should join?
  12. What are the common career paths within the company?
  13. How involved is management in day-to-day operations?
  14. Can you tell me about any community service or social responsibility initiatives the company participates in?
  15. How does the company handle employee recognition?
  16. What is the company’s stance on environmental sustainability?
  17. Are there any unwritten rules or tips you could share to help me fit in more quickly?

Expectations and Performance Metrics

  1. What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for my role?
  2. How often will my performance be formally reviewed?
  3. What does success look like in this position within the first 90 days?
  4. Are there any current goals or benchmarks I should be aiming for?
  5. What is the most important thing I can accomplish in my first month?
  6. Are there any critical deadlines coming up that I should be aware of?
  7. How will I receive feedback on my performance?
  8. Can you clarify the process for setting and reviewing personal goals?
  9. What is the procedure for suggesting improvements or changes to my role?
  10. What are some common pitfalls to avoid in this position?
  11. In case of underperformance, what steps are typically taken for improvement?
  12. How do team collaborations affect individual performance assessments?
  13. Are there any tools or systems in place to track progress?
  14. How closely will I work with my supervisor or team lead?
  15. What reporting structure should I follow in my daily/weekly updates?
  16. Can peers provide feedback on my performance, and if so, how?
  17. Will there be opportunities to expand my role or take on new responsibilities?

Team Integration

  1. Can you introduce me to the key team members I’ll be working closely with?
  2. What are the main communication channels the team uses?
  3. How does the team handle collaboration on projects?
  4. Are there team meetings or stand-ups I should be aware of?
  5. Can you tell me about the current dynamics or working style of the team?
  6. How can I best contribute to the team in my first few weeks?
  7. Are there any team-building activities or events I should be preparing for?
  8. How is the workload typically distributed within the team?
  9. Does the team have any ongoing challenges that I should be aware of?
  10. How does the team prioritize tasks and handle timelines?
  11. Are there any specific skills or expertise the team is in need of currently?
  12. How are decisions made within the team?
  13. Is there a protocol for conflict resolution within the team?
  14. What are the common practices for sharing information and updates within the team?
  15. How often does the team give and receive feedback internally?
  16. Are there mentors or point people assigned to new members?
  17. Can you suggest ways for me to quickly get up to speed with what the team is working on?

Resources and Support Networks

  1. What training programs should I complete to best perform my job?
  2. Are there any internal knowledge bases or documentation I should review?
  3. Who do I contact for IT support or issues with company-issued hardware/software?
  4. Can you point me toward any professional development opportunities the company offers?
  5. Are there any employee resource groups or committees that I can join?
  6. What channels are available if I need HR assistance?
  7. Are there any mentors or advisors available for career guidance?
  8. How do I access the company intranet or internal communication platforms?
  9. Who can I go to for questions about benefits, payroll, or policies?
  10. Are there language or communication skills resources available?
  11. What is the process for requesting supplies or equipment?
  12. How is health and safety managed, and who can I speak with for related concerns?
  13. Is there a point person for work-related travel arrangements, if applicable?
  14. What is the process for accessing and contributing to shared company drives or servers?
  15. Can you recommend any specific colleague I should meet for cross-departmental insights?
  16. Is there a system for peer support or networking within the company?
  17. How do I identify and reach out to key contacts in other departments?

Logistics and Daily Operations

  1. What are the standard work hours, and is there flexibility?
  2. How does the company handle overtime?
  3. What is the protocol for sick days or personal leave?
  4. Are there any specific security protocols I need to follow?
  5. Can you walk me through the process of booking meeting rooms or resources?
  6. What is the standard process for expense reports or reimbursements?
  7. How should I handle email communications outside of standard work hours?
  8. What parking or commuting resources are available to employees?
  9. How are work-related notifications or announcements typically communicated?
  10. Is there a dress code I should be aware of?
  11. What is the process for updating personal information with HR?
  12. Are there systems in place for remote working or telecommuting?
  13. What are the lunch break or rest break policies?
  14. How do I set up voicemail, email signatures, and out-of-office replies?
  15. Who should I notify if I’m running late or coming in early?
  16. Is there a procedure for booking travel or attending conferences?
  17. Where can I find guidelines for safe and secure data handling?

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you not do on your first day of work?

When you start a new job, it is important to make a good first impression. You should not come to work late, dress inappropriately, or act unprofessionally. It is also important to be on time and ready to work. If you can do these things, you are sure to make a good first impression and start your new job off on the right foot.

How do you introduce yourself on the first day of work?

Introducing yourself on your first day of work can be difficult, but it is important to make a good first impression. Some tips to follow include being polite, introducing yourself and your skills, and being aware of the company’s culture. It is also important to treat others in the workplace with respect and not come across as arrogant. By following these tips, you can make a good first impression and lay the foundation for a productive working relationship.

Final Thoughts

Asking these questions on your first day of work is a great way to make a good impression and get to know your colleagues and the company culture better. By asking about things like the company’s core values, its history, and its competitors, you show that you’re interested and engaged in your new role.

Also, by asking about the expectations, decision-making processes, and policies for remote work, you’ll get a better understanding of how things work at your new company. So don’t be afraid to speak up on your first day—just ask!

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Jessa Claire is a registered healthcare provider. Music lover. Daydreamer. Thalassophile. Foodie. A hardworking Capricorn. Most days, an incurable empath. An old soul. Down-to-earth. Vibrant. When she's not writing, she can be seen relaxing with headphones on or engrossed in her favorite fan fiction book.