Confirm the expected attire so you dress appropri- ately. The company will likely have a dress code that must be followed. A dress code is a set of rules or guide- lines that defines acceptable attire in a certain place. In the workplace, dress codes can be used for safety reasons or to ensure a professional atmosphere. Even if there is no official dress code, dress professionally to match the culture of the workplace. Be on time for your first day of work. Your first impression sets the stage for your working career. Greet each new coworker with an enthusiastic smile and pleasant conversation. Exhibit a positive atti- tude and your excitement to be part of the team. When you meet with your new supervisor, convey your enthusiasm to be an asset to the company. Ask for guidance on your activities, people you should meet, and other information to make your first few days productive. Day One The first day on the job will be both overwhelming and exciting. You will probably spend the first day meeting coworkers and getting to know the facility. It is impor- tant to your career to make a positive first impression with those you meet. Learn all you can about the company before your first day of work. During the interview process, you should have acquired information about the company’s culture, mission, customers, and other valuable details. Use this information to aid your transition as a new employee. Contact the human resources department to inquire as to whether you need a badge or a security code to enter the premises. Ask which building entrance you should use and whom you should call when you arrive. If you are driving, find out where employees are expected to park and whether you need a parking pass. Career Portfolio Presenting the Print Portfolio. It is suggested that you have a print version of your portfolio. This gives flexibility in the event that the job-application process requires print evidence of your qualifications. It also provides the basis for your electronic version that you will also create. Start with the fl owchart to recall the order of your documents. After you have sorted through the documents and determined the order, create a title page for each section to organize the material. For example, a title page that says Work Samples helps give order to your documents. Conclude your portfolio with an updated résumé, list of references, and letters of recommendation. Consider adding a photo in this section. Some advisors may suggest against this however, your photo is probably on your LinkedIn or social media pages, so it is not confi dential. By including it in your portfolio, it will help the interviewer connect name and face when the evaluation process is underway. Next, prepare a table of contents for the items. This will help the person reviewing the portfolio locate each item and give a professional appearance to your portfolio. Select the folder, binder, or other carrier that will be used to house the print portfolio. You will need multiples because, in most instances, you will leave the portfolio with the employer. It is suggested that you initially create two or three at the beginning of the process. As you progress in the job-seeking process, there will be inevitable changes that you will want to make. If you have created too many initial versions, you may fi nd yourself discarding them. Remember, a portfolio is a living document and will be updated regularly. 1. Review the documents you have collected. Select the items you want to include in your portfolio. Make copies of certificates, diplomas, and other important documents. Keep the originals in a safe place. 2. Place the items in a binder, folder, or other container. 3. Give the portfolio to an instructor, counselor, or other person who can give constructive feedback. Review the feedback you received. Make necessary adjustments and revisions. racorn/Shutterstock.com Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 207 Chapter 13 Your First Day on the Job