Back to basics 3: your first day

Posted on 11 February 2026 • Career planning

Starting a new role: workplace expectations decoded

Starting a new job – whether it’s your first role, a career change, or a return to work after time away – often means navigating unfamiliar workplace expectations. It’s always wise to do your research about the organisation before applying, but it’s also a good idea to go back to it before your first day. You might also want to remind yourself of the company’s workplace equality, diversity and inclusion policies and your rights as a new employee. Every organisation has its own culture, but here are some common professional standards employers look for.

Punctuality and planning

Most workplaces expect you to be ready to start work at your official start time – which usually means being at your desk or workspace a few minutes before. Whether it’s a face-to-face day or role, or you’re starting remotely, build in some buffer time for transport or unexpected delays. If you are running late, let your manager or team know as soon as possible.

Breaks and boundaries: navigating shared spaces

• Lunch breaks: check what’s normal in your team. Some workplaces have a culture of eating at desks, others expect you to take a proper break. Ask your manager if unsure.
• Shared spaces: remember that breakrooms aren’t fully private. Keep volume and topics appropriate for a professional setting.
• Online and in-person meeting etiquette: different organisations or teams may have different expectations, for example sharing chairing or note-taking duties, putting hands up or leaving questions until the end, leaving cameras on or switching off.
• Personal calls and messages: save these for breaks where possible. If something urgent comes up, step away from your desk.
• Social situations: work social events (even ‘optional’ ones) are still work. Treat them like a professional setting.

When you’re unsure, just ask

Every workplace is different. “What’s the usual approach here?” is a perfectly reasonable question that shows awareness, not uncertainty.

We’re here to help

Navigating workplace culture takes time. If you want to talk through any concerns about starting a new role, book a careers consultation with the OU Careers team.