Whether you’re navigating your first office job or adjusting to return-to-office (RTO) policies, this guide has you covered. We’ve pulled together everything you need to know, from what to wear to some unofficial office rules you really shouldn’t break, to help you thrive in the office.

Let’s dig in and explore what to expect when working in an office.

How to Prepare for Your First Day in an Office

Your first day in the office can be stressful, even if you’re excited about the job. If you’re new to office work, here’s what you need to know to prepare.

For introverts or people who haven’t worked around others in a long time, the socialization that happens in an office environment can take some getting used to.

But let’s rewind a bit—how can you prepare for your first day in an office and set yourself up for success?

What to Wear

Dress for any weather. Some offices feel like a sauna, while others resemble the Arctic tundra—so plan accordingly! Your first day is going to be stressful regardless, so you don’t want to be uncomfortable on top of that. Make sure to bring a sweater.

That said, wearing a ski suit to work isn’t the best option. Hopefully, your manager has given you some insight on what’s appropriate office attire, but if they haven’t, feel free to ask! Most managers will be happy to explain what most people in the office wear. However, if you’re uncomfortable asking your manager this question, dress up more than you think you should.

Most offices require some form of business casual, but the true definition of business casual depends heavily on the office environment. Hold off on bold fashion choices for your first few days until you get a sense of the office culture. Jeans might be acceptable, but you should not wear them on the first day.

What to Bring

Alongside a sweater, make sure to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, a notebook, a pen/pencil, and anything else required by your company (if you’ve received your laptop already, make sure you don’t forget that!).

Don’t worry too much about bringing in things for your desk just yet. You’ll have plenty of time in the upcoming days and weeks to truly get yourself settled.

Commute Prep

The most important thing is to make sure you do this early. Don’t wait until the last minute (or right before you think you’re supposed to leave).

If you’re taking public transportation, make sure you’ve tried out your route in advance and have a backup route in place in case there’s construction on the line or long delays.

Similarly, if you’re driving to your office, make sure you know at least two ways to get there and have driven them both previously. Also, verify with your manager or company representative what the parking situation is like. Do you have an assigned parking lot? Is the parking lot on company property? Does it cost anything to park? Some companies share a parking garage, so it isn’t always free. Make sure you’re aware beforehand so you don’t have any added stress on day one.

No matter how you commute, give yourself some breathing space so you aren’t rushing at the last minute, especially during the first week. If stopping for your morning coffee is non-negotiable, build in extra time for the inevitable rush.

Make the Space Your Own

You will be spending around 40 hours a week, if not more, in your space, so make sure you like it! Whether you have a cubicle or an open seating space, creating a space that keeps you productive, inspired, and comfortable is key to success.

For some people, this could be bringing photos of family and friends, adding colorful frames and sparkly organizers. For others, you might need fewer distractions, so this would be ensuring you have a blanket to stay warm, a riser for your desk, and a plant for that splash of green.

You know yourself best (and what your company is okay with you having), so build an environment where you can thrive.

Building Connections

One major reason companies encourage in-office work is the opportunity to build strong connections with coworkers. However, if you haven’t worked in an office environment before, here are a few tips to mingle and network:

• Eat lunch in the cafeteria – Many conversations happen over lunch! Even if your office has only a small break room, it’s a great place to meet people from other departments.
• Say hi in the elevator – A quick introduction could spark a great conversation—or even leave a lasting impression on a senior leader.
• Get to know your immediate team – These are the people you’ll work with the most, so build strong relationships. Chat before meetings, grab a coffee, or check in regularly to stay connected.

Unofficial Rules of Office Life

While each office you work in might have a different set of rules to follow, here are a few unofficial rules that tend to be the same no matter where you go:

• Avoid cooking strong-smelling foods (like fish, brussels sprouts, or sauerkraut), especially if the kitchen is near workspaces.
• If someone’s office door is closed, send them a message before knocking.
• Don’t use candles or wear anything highly scented.
• Always use headphones when listening to audio on your phone or computer.

You’ve Got This! 

Walk into the office every day like you belong—because you do. You were hired for your skills, talent, and potential. Own it!

This guide doesn’t cover every detail, but it’s a solid starting point for office success. Working in an office is completely different than working from home or in the classroom, but if you follow these best practices, you’ll set yourself up for success.

At RTC, we help eager young tech professionals (or soon-to-be tech professionals in college!) develop the skills they need to succeed in the tech workforce. Become a member today!