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10 Things HR Notices During Your First Week at Work

HR Is Watching, Here’s What They Notice During Week One

Your first week at a new job in the GCC can feel like a whirlwind. New faces, new systems, maybe even a new country. But while you’re trying to settle in, HR is paying close attention.

HR professionals aren’t just checking if you showed up on time. They’re quietly observing your attitude, habits, and interactions, especially in your first few days. Why? Because first impressions matter. A lot.

Here are 10 things HR notices that can influence how you're perceived and how your career unfolds.

1. Your Punctuality (Every Day, Not Just Day One)

Coming in on time, consistently, is one of the clearest signs of professionalism. In GCC workplaces where punctuality is highly valued, showing up early or on time says: "I respect this role."

Even remote employees are expected to log in promptly and join meetings without delays.

2. How You Treat Everyone (Not Just Managers)

HR observes how you interact with colleagues, office support staff, and team members at all levels. A candidate who’s polite to the CEO but dismissive to the receptionist raises red flags.

Kindness, humility, and collaboration go a long way in regional workplaces where respect is key.

3. How Much You Listen vs. How Much You Talk

There’s a difference between confidence and coming off as a know-it-all. During your first week, HR expects you to be a sponge, not a loudspeaker.

Taking notes, asking thoughtful questions, and showing curiosity signal coachability.

4. Your Dress Code Awareness

Whether you're in a formal office in Riyadh or a casual startup in Dubai, dressing appropriately shows you’ve done your homework and understand the company culture.

HR notices if you're overdressed or underdressed, especially in your first few days.

5. Whether You Follow Instructions

New joiners who overlook basic onboarding steps, don’t read HR emails, or delay form submissions tend to stand out, and not in a good way.

Following processes shows responsibility and attention to detail.

6. How You Ask for Help

It’s okay not to know everything. What matters is how you ask.

HR notices whether you’re open about what you don’t know, and whether you make an effort to learn. Saying “Can you show me how to do this?” is better than pretending you already know.

7. Your Engagement in Introductions and Meetings

Do you make eye contact? Do you remember names? Are you engaged or distracted during onboarding presentations?

HR professionals notice these small cues that reflect your interest level, and potential cultural fit.

8. Your Email and Messaging Etiquette

Yes, even your emails are under observation. Are you polite? Do you respond on time? Do you communicate clearly?

In many GCC companies, professionalism in writing carries weight, especially when working across departments or with external clients.

9. How You Handle Downtime

During your first week, there may be quiet moments. HR sees whether you use that time wisely, reading policies, exploring internal platforms, or getting familiar with tools.

Looking bored or scrolling on your phone? Not a great impression.

10. Your Overall Attitude

Are you open, flexible, and eager to contribute? Or do you seem uninterested or entitled?

HR professionals can’t always define it, but they notice it: the energy you bring. A positive, humble attitude is hard to ignore, and it’s often what sets great hires apart from the rest.

Final Thoughts: Your First Week Sets the Tone

You don’t need to be perfect. But you do need to be present, professional, and engaged. HR teams are rooting for you to succeed, but they’re also quietly collecting first impressions that could influence everything from probation decisions to promotion opportunities.

Want to Start Strong in Your Next Role?

Explore thousands of opportunities on Bayt.com and find a job where your first impression can lead to lasting success.

  • Date posted: 03/11/2025
  • Last updated: 03/11/2025
  • Date posted: 03/11/2025
  • Last updated: 03/11/2025
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