What Not to Do as a New Developer (And What to Do Instead)

Starting a new role can feel like navigating a minefield. You’re figuring out where everything is, who everyone is, and what on earth you’re actually meant to be doing. It’s a lot.

So, let’s take a breath, step back, and get you prepped for day one. Here are a few things to not do—and what to do instead.

1. Don’t: Ignore the Dress Code

First impressions matter (even if we wish they didn’t). You don’t want to be the only one in a three-piece suit while everyone else is rocking hoodies—or vice versa. Before you start, ask about the dress code. If you’re unsure, aim for smart-casual: think trousers and trainers or a comfy dress with tights. When in doubt, it’s better to be a bit overdressed than to feel out of place.

Hack: If you’re nervous about asking, try phrasing it like this: “I want to make sure I’m dressed appropriately—what’s the usual vibe/ dress code in the office?”

2. Don’t: Burn Yourself Out

The first few days will be a whirlwind of names, new systems, and acronyms you’ve never heard before. Pace yourself. Take breaks when you need to, and don’t feel pressured to say “yes” to everything if you’re unsure what it means. You can’t learn everything at once, and no one expects you to.

3. Don’t: Let Imposter Syndrome Win

Spoiler alert: everyone feels like an imposter sometimes. Seriously—even the senior devs who look like they have it all figured out. You were hired for a reason. Trust that you earned your spot, and when the little voice in your head says otherwise, tell it to shush.

Hack: Keep a “brag” document. Every time you solve a problem or get positive feedback, jot it down. On tough days, revisit it and remind yourself how far you’ve come. Also useful for one to ones, or for progress reports!

4. Don’t: Go Silent

It’s easy to retreat into your screen when you’re overwhelmed, but now is the time to ask questions. People want to help (and if they don’t, well, that says more about them than you). Introduce yourself, be curious, and don’t be afraid to clarify things—there are no stupid questions, only unasked ones.

I have always been one to raise a question if I don’t understand something, and more times than not, someone else in the room wants to ask the same thing. If you are ever worried about asking, just imagine there is someone EVEN more nervous, and ask it for them!

5. Don’t: Forget to Celebrate Small Wins

Survived your first stand-up? Figured out how to push your first commit? Celebrate it! Every little milestone is proof that you’re learning and growing. Give yourself some credit—you’re doing the thing.

Hack: Share your wins with your team! It’s a great way to build rapport and show that you’re making progress. If not in stand up, try setting up a teams group and share weekly updates!

TL;DR: You Got This

Starting a new job is always a bit nerve-wracking, but you don’t need to have it all figured out on day one. Take it one step at a time, trust that you belong, and don’t forget to breathe. You’ve got this!

Written by [The Ditzy Developer]