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Is it normal to feel nervous on your first day of work?

Author

Matthew Martinez

Updated on March 14, 2026

Is it normal to feel nervous on your first day of work?

Nicky Lidbetter: It is important to reassure yourself that feelings of anxiety will pass and it is normal to feel nervous on your first day. It can also be reassuring to remember that the first day of a new job can be very busy, which can be helpful as it can serve as a distraction from feelings of anxiety.

In respect to this, how can I stop being nervous on the first day of work?

To ease your first day anxieties, here are our top tips to help you stop feeling nervous about starting a new job:

  1. Remind yourself what you'll actually be doing.
  2. Don't expect to know everything.
  3. Remember that you won't be new forever.
  4. Be on your best behaviour.
  5. Don't be too big for your boots.
  6. Write it all down.

Furthermore, how long does it take to feel confident in a new job? Most of the employees surveyed recalled it taking about two or three months before they felt like they could be themselves at their new workplace, though some said it took much longer: Nine percent of the employees said it took up to a year, and another nine percent said it took even longer than that.

In this manner, is it normal to feel nervous about starting a new job?

If so, by now, I'm sure at least some of that initial excitement of being offered the job has worn off and is starting to be replaced by feelings of nervousness or anxiety. Well, you're not alone – even for the most confident of people, starting a new job can be hugely nerve-wracking, and that's completely normal.

How do you deal with nerves on the first day?

How to handle first day nerves

  1. Prepare properly. Preparation is an excellent cure for new job nerves—no one wants to arrive in a new office on day one feeling dishevelled and caught off-guard.
  2. Re-familiarise yourself with the role.
  3. Take your time.
  4. Prepare a mental introduction.
  5. Re-program your mindset.
  6. Be kind to yourself.

How do I stop being nervous?

What you can do to overcome nervousness
  1. Don't be afraid of nervousness. In an uncomfortable situation, remind yourself that nervousness is normal, and it can even be helpful.
  2. Be prepared.
  3. Get into a positive headspace.
  4. Talk to someone.
  5. Try a relaxation technique.

How long does it take to feel comfortable in a job?

For 9% of respondents, it took them a little bit longer to settle in – around 10-12 months. Another 9% reported taking an entire year, which, ouch, we feel for you. Generally, it shows that two thirds of people will settle into a new job in around three months time.

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

10 Things You Should Never Do When Starting A New Job
  • Don't show up late.
  • Don't dress unprofessionally.
  • Don't blow off orientation.
  • Don't expect hand-holding.
  • Don't ask co-workers to do your work.
  • Don't take too many personal calls.
  • Don't ask for more money.
  • Don't try to change things.

How early should you be for your first day of work?

If you really want to be safe, get up one morning and give it a test run. However long your commute will take you, leave at least 10 minutes early on your first real day of work. Showing up a little early is OK, but being late on day one starts things off on the wrong foot in a big way.

How long does it take to get used to new job?

Adjustments in your new role and everything that comes with it could take anywhere from three to six months, and sometimes longer depending on the technicality and seniority of the role. The key is to prepare yourself for these less expected adjustments, facing them with a positive and patient attitude.

How can I be more confident in a new job?

14 ways to gain confidence when you're at a new job and an
  1. Know that you are wired to lead.
  2. Get charged before you engage.
  3. Leverage one-on-one interactions.
  4. Dress for success.
  5. Speak with a period at the end.
  6. Watch your body language.
  7. Be engaging.
  8. Speak up.

Is it normal to not like your new job?

Again, this is normal. Most people don't like uncertainty or the feeling like they are not in control. As with many major life changes, this can often be the case when changing jobs.

What do I do if I don't like my new job?

Blindside your boss and abruptly quit — give your employer a chance to hear and respond to your concerns. Feel obliged to stick it out — you owe it to yourself and your boss to find a role that works for you. Let the wrong job push you into another bad role — think carefully about your next move.

How do you tell if you are doing well at a new job?

The following are five ways to tell if you are doing well at your new job:
  1. You Have Greater Ownership Over Your Work.
  2. You Are Being Given More Responsibility.
  3. Your Colleagues Rely on Your Opinion/Expertise.
  4. You're Asked to Represent Your Company.
  5. Your Boss Is Starting to Lean on You More.

What is the first 90 days of a new job called?

The first 90 days of employment are called the Orientation and Evaluation period, or the Trial Period for those who are transfering internally.

How do I get rid of jitters on the first day?

Starting a New Job?How to Overcome the First-Day Jitters
  1. Prepare. Part of the stress that comes with starting a new job is 100% avoidable if you prepare ahead of time.
  2. Do your homework.
  3. Ask questions.
  4. Take notes.
  5. Be friendly.
  6. Listen and absorb.
  7. Go to lunch.
  8. Don't criticize.