Use this guide in the week before you start a new job and during your first few weeks. Have your offer letter, contract, P45 from your last job if you have one and your bank details ready.
Step by step
Check your contract and offer
Read your written statement of terms and check it matches what you were offered, including pay, hours, holiday, notice and probation. Ask about anything unclear before you start. Keep a copy somewhere safe.
Get your paperwork ready
Give your employer your P45, or complete a starter checklist if you do not have one, so you are put on the right tax code. Bring the right to work documents they ask for, your National Insurance number and bank details. Check your first payslip carefully.
Plan your first day
Confirm your start time, where to go, who to ask for and what to wear. Plan your journey and aim to arrive a little early. Bring a notebook and a list of questions.
Learn how things work
In the first weeks, focus on learning systems, processes and who does what. Write things down so you do not have to ask twice, but ask when you need to. Read key policies, such as sickness absence and health and safety.
Build working relationships
Introduce yourself to colleagues and learn names and roles. Ask your manager how they prefer to communicate and how often you will meet. Offer help where you can.
Agree goals for probation
Ask your manager what success looks like in your first three to six months and how your probation will be reviewed. Keep brief notes of what you achieve and any feedback. Raise problems early rather than waiting for the review.
Ready-to-use checklist
- Contract read and matches the offer
- P45 or starter checklist handed in
- Right to work documents ready
- Bank details and NI number given
- Journey and start time confirmed
- Key policies read
- Probation goals agreed
- First payslip checked
Practical tips
- Check the tax code on your first payslip and in your HMRC account, as new jobs often start on an emergency code.
- Join the workplace pension if you are enrolled, and check how much you and your employer pay in.
- Keep a simple log of your wins and training in the first months; it helps at probation reviews and future pay discussions.
Common problems
Your first payslip shows more tax than you expected.
You may be on an emergency tax code. Check your tax code in your HMRC personal tax account and update any details. Overpaid tax is usually refunded through later pay.
The job is very different from what you were told.
Raise it calmly with your manager, referring to the job description and your contract. Keep notes of the conversation, and get advice from Acas if things are not resolved.
You have not received a written contract.
Employees and workers are entitled to a written statement of main terms from their first day. Ask your manager or HR for it in writing, and contact Acas if it does not arrive.
This guide gives general information, not personal legal, financial or medical advice. Rules and prices change, so check the current position with the official service before acting.
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