Introduction to 'Starting employment'
A new job can be exciting and scary at the same time. If you’re about to start your first job, you may be wondering what to expect. Even if you’re changing roles or returning after time away from work, you may still be nervous.
Preparing for your first day can help you feel calmer and more confident. In this lesson, we’ll explain what to expect as you start working in your new role. We’ll take you through the early days, from receiving your contract through to completing your trial period.
What you'll learn
- What your contract of employment tells you.
- How to prepare for your first day at work.
- How to read your payslip.
- What a probationary period is and how to use it.
How long it takes
16 minutes
Your contract
Chapter 1
How long it takes
2 minutes
What is a contract of employment?
When you accept a job offer, you’ll normally receive a contract of employment. This is a legal agreement with your employer. It covers your basic rights and duties at work. Your contract of employment usually starts on your first day of work. It lasts until you or your employer end your employment, or until the terms change.
What are the terms?
Always check your contract terms. They set out the conditions and responsibilities for both you and your employer.
Terms generally include:
Your rate of pay
How much and how often your employer will pay you.
Other benefits
Any extra perks like staff discounts, private health insurance or loans for travel season tickets.
The hours you work
Your normal working hours each day or week, plus any arrangements for overtime.
Your work and responsibilities
An outline of the tasks and activities you’ll do at work. You may also see information about where you’ll work.
How much holiday you get
Often ‘pro-rata’ which means if you join part-way through the company’s working year, you’ll get a proportion of the annual holiday allowance.
The notice periods for you and your employer
How much time you have to work after you resign, your employer dismisses you or your job becomes redundant.
Each employment contract is different. Some simply cover the terms we’ve mentioned. Others have more details, like company policies, a code of conduct or confidentiality clauses.
How to read and use your contract
Your contract of employment may be a very long document. It’s important to read through it carefully before you start work. Keep it somewhere safe, so you can return to it when you need to.
Want to know what to look out for on an employment contract? This article from Citizens Advice may be able to help.
Prepare to start work
Chapter 2
How long it takes
2 minutes
Before your first day
As your first day approaches, there are things you can do to help it go smoothly. Here are some of the things you should think about.
Check what you need to bring
Gather up all the paperwork your employer has asked for. This will often include some form of ID, your National Insurance number and your P45 if you have one. Not a UK citizen? You may also need to bring documents that prove your right to work in the UK.
Your employer might ask for your bank details on the first day, so they can set up your payroll entry. So, make sure you have your bank sort code and account number with you.
Also think about other things to take for your first day. You may want to take a bottle of water and some snacks, for example. Can you buy food onsite or nearby? If not, it may be a good idea to pack something for lunch. Pack pens and a notepad so you can take notes.
Plan your journey
Check where you need to be on your first day and what time you need to get there. Will you be using public transport? Check the routes and timetables.
If you’re driving, try a practice run at a similar time of day if you can. This will give you an idea of how long it takes to get there. It’s good to check where you’ll park, too. Not all workplaces have onsite parking. Those that do may need your vehicle details so they can issue a parking permit.
Work out what you'll wear
You may have an idea of the dress code from when you went to your interview. Check the job offer letter or contract too, as these sometimes mention it. Make sure your clothes are clean, ironed and comfortable to wear all day. The right clothes can help make a good impression and boost your confidence.
Remember to check the weather forecast the night before. If rain’s on the way, take an umbrella or waterproof jacket.
Be aware
Some roles need a uniform or special work wear. This can include hard hats, aprons or safety boots. Employers will usually give you these.
Review key information
It may be a while since you viewed the company website or social channels. So take another look before you start. You can refresh what you know about them and catch up on their latest news.
It’s also a good idea to revisit the job description, or the tasks and duties that were in the contract. This can help you feel more confident that you know what to expect when you start.
Set up your equipment
If you’ll be working remotely, you may receive a work laptop or other equipment. Test this out and check if you can access what you’ll need on your first day. This may include communication tools like email and video calling software.
Do you need internet access? Test out the network connection in the room you’ll use. Make sure you have the contact details for IT support, in case you need these.
Look after yourself
You’ll want to start work feeling your best. There’s likely to be lots to take in during those early days and weeks in the role. So do what helps you relax and feel good before your first day. Rest, eat well and get an early night if you can. Doing this will give you the best chance to arrive at work alert and ready to go!
Your first day
Chapter 3
How long it takes
7 minutes
What to expect
So the big day has arrived! In this chapter, we’ll talk you through what your first day at work may include. Bear in mind that every job is different. For most, the early days will be all about you getting to know the workplace, the people around you and what you’ll be doing.
Introductions
You’re likely to meet your manager and others in your team on your first day. They’ll help you settle in and explain what you’ll be doing. You can also ask them any questions you have – from where the toilets are to how you log into their systems.
You may have meetings or calls with other people outside your team, too. So many names to remember!
Here are some ideas to help you with this:
Focus on what they're saying
Listen carefully when someone is introducing themselves – try to clear your mind of everything else.
Say it back
At the end of your chat, repeat their name aloud, to help embed it in your mind. Say something like ‘It’s lovely to meet you, Mo’.
Make a note
Feel free to write it down. For instance, you could sketch a floor plan and note people’s names where they sit.
Remember
Don’t worry if you forget someone’s name – they’ll understand. Just be honest and ask them again.
Paperwork
There’s likely to be some forms to complete and documents to read during your first few days.
This may include:
Information you'll bring with you
Like proof of ID, bank details and emergency contact names.
Details of benefits
For example, private healthcare and pension schemes.
Policy documents
Like health and safety, data protection and equal opportunities.
While it’s not the most exciting part of your day, do take time to read through these documents and complete the forms. HR or your manager can usually answer any questions you have on these.
A tour of the workplace
If you’re working in one place, your manager or colleagues can take you around and show you where things are. You’ll find out where to eat, make a coffee and take a break. They can also show you the meeting rooms and where you’ll be working.
It can take some time to get confident in finding your way around. This is especially true if the site is large or spread over many floors or buildings. Don’t worry if you can’t work out how to get somewhere in those early days. Just ask someone for help – they’ve all had their own ‘first days’ and will understand.
Idea
Some workplaces have floorplans and maps to help you. Look for these on walls near entrances and lifts, or on the company intranet.
Induction
Some workplaces have a formal induction programme. Others prefer a more relaxed approach. Either way, the idea behind an induction is to welcome you to the company and help you get up and running. Inductions usually start on the first day and may last longer, depending on the role and the employer.
Part of your induction is learning. This can include general information about the company, their culture and key people there. There may also be some more job-specific learning, for example on tools you need to use.
This may take the form of:
Self-study
Reading or completing online learning.
Training sessions or workshops
These may be virtual or in-person, one-to-one or in a group.
Shadowing
Observing a work colleague in their day-to-day activities.
Remember
No one will expect you to be an expert straight away. You’ll have time to learn and develop your skills. Use this time to ask plenty of questions and make notes.
Questions to ask
When you start a new job, there is so much you’ll want to know. This is the best time to find the answers to all those questions. It can help you settle in more quickly and show your boss that you’re keen to learn.
Here are some questions you may have:
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This is a good one to ask first! It will help you find the right person to go to for different questions.
Key contacts to find out include:
- IT or tech support – Who you can when you get stuck or need access to systems.
- Other specialists – Find out who the experts are, in and outside of your team.
- Day-to-day queries – Like where the printer is or how to complete your first timesheet.
- Your workload and projects – Make sure you’re clear on who manages your work.
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In some teams, everyone takes the same time for lunch. This means they can all be available outside these times for meetings and other team tasks. Other jobs need people to take different break times to make sure there’s always someone on duty. It’s good to find out early what your team does.
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You may know the answer to this already, but it’s good to confirm. There may be some flexibility in your working hours. Some employers like everyone to be available during core or peak times. Other roles are hybrid, which means you work onsite some days and remotely the rest of the time.
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If you need to take a day off sick or are running late one day, you’ll need to know who you should call. Make a note of their number and keep it on your phone.
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This is especially important for remote working. Find out whether to call, send a quick message or use email when you need to reach your team. Be aware that each person may do something different. Some like the informality of messaging apps. Others may prefer email.
Over time, you’ll also get a feel for how chatty they are, whether they have special ‘coffee-break’ times and their overall team communication style. Gradually, you’ll learn each of them shares their thoughts. You can then start to adapt your approach to match their style.
Dos and don’ts
Here’s our top tips to help your first day go well:
Don’t be late – or too early
Being late on your first day won’t make the best impression. Make sure you set your alarm and allow enough time to get there. If you do end up running late, let your employer know.
Also, bear in mind that they may not be ready for you if you turn up more than 30 minutes before your agreed start time. Aim to arrive with about 10 minutes to spare.
Be open and friendly
Introduce yourself with a smile. This shows others that you’re friendly, polite and enthusiastic. A smile can make a big difference to those you meet and it may help boost your confidence, too.
Stay positive and be yourself throughout your day. Engage in conversations and show an interest in others. You’re starting to build relationships, so if someone asks you to join them for lunch, accept their invitation. It’s a perfect way to get to know your peers in a more relaxed environment.
Watch and learn
Workplace culture varies from company to company and team to team. Take time to get to know your team and how they work. Do they take turns on a ‘coffee run’? Then make sure you take a turn, too.
Take plenty of notes
With so much to take in on your first day, you’ll want to jot things down. Keep your notepad and pen with you. From remembering names to knowing how to use systems, your notes will help you through your early days and weeks.
Make a note of any questions you have, too. That way, you’ll make the most of your time with the people you want to ask.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
If you get stuck or something’s not working, don’t sit in silence. Your colleagues know you’re new and expect you to ask plenty of questions. Asking them will help you get up to speed more quickly.
Your payslip
Chapter 4
How long it takes
3 minutes
What are payslips?
Your contract will let you know how often your employer will pay you. Just before you get paid, you’ll receive a payslip. This shows your basic pay plus any extras or deductions. Some employers will print your payslip and give it to you in a sealed cover. Others email it to you or use a secure online system.
When your get your payslip, keep it safe and check that everything looks right.
All payslips show:
Your gross pay
This is your full pay, before tax and other deductions. Your basic pay should match what is on the contract. The payslip may also list any bonuses, commission or overtime payments. Some employers list expense payments here, too.
The hours you've worked
If you work at different pay rates, each rate should be on your payslip. For example, you may earn more at weekends. The payslip should also show the number of hours you worked at that rate.
Your deductions
Money that is taken off your gross pay. This includes:
- Income Tax – Look for ‘PAYE’ (Pay as you earn) on your payslip.
- National Insurance – This goes towards your State Pension and other benefits.
- Your pension contributions – If you’re paying into a workplace pension.
- Student loan - If you’re making repayments on a student loan.
- Child maintenance – If the CMS (Child Maintenance Service) collects this from you.
Your net pay
This is the amount of money that goes into your bank account. Some people call it your ‘take-home’ pay. It’s what’s left over after deductions have been taken off your gross pay.
Other payments and deductions
You may see extra information, depending on your employer and your situation. For example, you could get Statutory Sick Pay if you meet certain conditions. New or expectant parents might see Statutory Maternity Pay, Shared Parental Pay or Statutory Adoption Pay. The company may also offer maternity pay, which will show up separately.
Do you get perks like health insurance, season ticket loans or a company car? You’re likely to see these on your payslip as they can affect your tax code.
Payslips also usually include:
- Your payroll number – Your unique number from the payroll team.
- Personal information – Your name, and sometimes your home address.
- Date – This is the date your pay should go into your bank account.
- Tax period – The tax period for that payslip.
- Tax code – Your tax code is sent to by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
- National Insurance number – This is your unique Department of Work and Pensions number.
- Company name – Your employer’s details.
What to check on your payslip
It’s easy to focus on just one thing when you get your payslip – your net pay. That is, after all, the amount of money you get in your bank account. There are other items to look at, though. These can help to explain that amount. You can also use them to make sure you’re not paying too much tax.
Your tax code
Your tax code tells you how much tax you pay. On your payslip, it looks like some numbers and a letter.
Reading your tax code:
Step 1
Write down the number part
For example, 1257.
Step 2
Multiply by 10
For example, 1257 x 10 = 12,570.
Step 3
This gives your tax allowance
For example, £12,750.
Your tax allowance is how much you can earn before you start paying tax.
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) will send you a Coding Notice each year. This lets you know what your tax code is.
If you change your job, your former employer will give you a document called a P45. This document includes your tax code. You should give your new employer the P45, so that you pay the right level of tax.
Think your tax code is wrong or want to find out what the letters mean? This page from HMRC may help.
The early weeks
Chapter 5
How long it takes
2 minutes
What is a probationary period?
When you start a new job, you’re likely to be ‘on probation’ for a certain amount of time. Some people call it a ‘trial period’. It’s often three or six months but can be longer. This period is there to help you and your employer to decide whether you’re a good match for the job.
Be aware
During your probation, the notice periods are often shorter. This means if the job isn’t working out, you or your employer can end the employment early.
What happens when you're on probation
Employers use this time to measure your performance and check you can do the job. They should make it clear at the start what they expect and will measure. This makes it easier for you to know how you’re doing.
At the end of your probation, you’ll meet with your manager to talk about your progress. If all goes well, you’ll pass your probation and get a letter to confirm this. This can also mark the start of some benefits, like workplace pensions.
Probation is a two-way process, though. You can use it too.
How to use your probationary period
During this time, you can work out if the job and the company are right for you.
While you’re on probation:
Learn as much as you can
A new job means learning new skills and finding out information. Be willing to learn – ask questions, take notes and practise what you learn.
Ask for feedback
Feedback from your manager and others can help you understand how you’re performing. Seek feedback regularly and act on it during this time.
Seek and give support
If you’re worried about any aspect of your job, talk to your manager or someone else who can help. At the same time, look out for ways that you can support your colleagues.
Be professional
Your approach to work tasks is as important as the tasks themselves. Be polite and respectful. Understand the workplace culture and adapt to it.
If you’re not happy during this time
If you’re unhappy at work and think the job’s not for you, you may decide to leave. While you’re on probation, you’re likely to be able to do this with less notice – sometimes straight away. Give yourself enough time to settle in, though. It’s common to feel rather unsettled in a new job. Talk to your manager, too. There may be aspects of the job that they can help with.
Related learning links
Your future work skills
Applying for jobs
Creating your CV
Prepare for an interview
Want to learn more?
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Lloyds Bank Academy is committed to providing information in a way that is accessible and useful for our users. This information, however, is not in any way intended to amount to authority or advice on which reliance should be placed. You should seek professional advice as appropriate and required. Any sites, products or services named in this module are just examples of what's available. Lloyds Bank does not endorse the services they provide. The information in this module was last updated on 8th April 2025.