{"id":8630,"date":"2026-02-11T09:49:29","date_gmt":"2026-02-11T09:49:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.open.ac.uk\/blogs\/careers\/?p=8630"},"modified":"2026-04-15T11:28:57","modified_gmt":"2026-04-15T10:28:57","slug":"back-to-basics-3-your-first-day","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.open.ac.uk\/blogs\/careers\/?p=8630","title":{"rendered":"Back to basics 3: your first day"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/a>Starting a new role: workplace expectations decoded<\/h4>\n

Starting a new job \u2013 whether it’s your first role, a career change, or a return to work after time away \u2013 often means navigating unfamiliar workplace expectations. It\u2019s always wise to do your research<\/a> about the organisation before applying, but it\u2019s also a good idea to go back to it before your first day. You might also want to remind yourself of the company\u2019s workplace equality, diversity and inclusion policies and your rights as a new employee<\/a>. Every organisation has its own culture, but here are some common professional standards employers look for.<\/p>\n

Punctuality and planning<\/h4>\n

Most workplaces expect you to be ready to start work at your official start time \u2013 which usually means being at your desk or workspace a few minutes before. Whether it\u2019s a face-to-face day or role, or you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n

Breaks and boundaries: navigating shared spaces<\/h4>\n