Creating a Good First Day on the Job

Abstract

The first day of work appears to be critical for a new employee's attitude about his or her new company, and about the messages it conveys on this day. A sample of hospitality-industry newcomers remembered mostly negative first-day incidents involving supportiveness (or its lack), appreciation (or blame), being made to feel welcome (or unwelcome), and being made to feel part of the family or team (or experiencing conflict and separation). Organizations need to focus on job aspects that are most critical to the newcomers and provide newcomers with the information most useful to them for alleviating the uncertainty and anxiety surrounding the entry process. Structured activities held on the first day should make newcomers feel welcome and provide emotional support. The process of socialization can affect a newcomer's performance, satisfaction, and commitment to (or intention to leave) the organization.