5 Smart Things Every Employee Should Do When Starting a New Job in 2026
Starting a new job, or a new year at work, can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Beyond learning your role and meeting new people, there’s something else that really matters: understanding your position as an employee.
This isn’t about being overly cautious or “difficult.” It’s about knowing where you stand, protecting yourself, and setting yourself up for a smoother year at work.
1. Take Time to Read Your Contract (Yes, It’s Worth It)
It’s tempting to skim your employment contract and click “accept,” but that document sets the rules of your working life.
Your contract and workplace policies explain things like
Your hours, pay, and holiday entitlement
Probation periods and notice requirements
What’s expected of you at work
How issues or complaints are handled
You don’t need to memorise it, just understand the basics. If something doesn’t make sense, it’s okay to ask HR for clarification. That’s part of being informed.
2. Know Your Rights and What’s Expected of You
In the UK, the Employment Rights Act 2025 gives you important protections, but you cannot take advantage of the protections unless you know what they are.
As an employee, you have the right to:
Be paid correctly and on time
Work in a safe environment
Be treated fairly and without discrimination
At the same time, you’re expected to follow lawful instructions, respect workplace policies, and treat colleagues appropriately. Knowing both sides helps you feel more confident and avoid problems before they start.
3. Keep Your Own Record of Important Things
This isn’t about mistrust; it’s about being organised.
It’s a good habit to keep copies of:
Your contract and any updates to it
Performance reviews or feedback
Emails about role changes, pay, or concerns
Notes about any workplace issues
If something ever needs clearing up later, having your own records can really help. Most of the time, you’ll never need them, but it’s reassuring to know they’re there should you need them.
4. Speak Up Early and Follow the Right Process
If something at work doesn’t feel right, ignoring it usually makes things worse.
Whether it’s a misunderstanding, workload issue, or something more serious:
Raise concerns early
Use your company’s grievance or reporting process
Keep communication calm, factual, and professional
UK employment law often looks at how issues were raised, not just what was raised. Following the right steps protects you and shows you acted reasonably.
5. Protect Your Wellbeing and Set Healthy Boundaries
Your job matters, but so does your health.
Under UK employment law, employers have a duty of care to protect your health, safety, and wellbeing at work. That includes reasonable working hours, reasonable duties, rest breaks, and a safe working environment.
As an employee, it’s important to:
Take your entitled breaks and annual leave
Speak up if workloads are becoming unmanageable
Set realistic boundaries around working hours, especially with remote or hybrid work
Burnout isn’t a badge of honour, and consistently working beyond your limits can affect both your health and your performance. Raising concerns early isn’t a failure; it’s often the most responsible thing you can do.
In 2026, being a good employee also means looking after yourself.
Need Support or Advice?
If you’re unsure about your rights, your contract, or a situation at work, getting clear advice early can make all the difference.
Salem Legal Services supports employees with practical, straightforward employment law guidance, helping you understand where you stand and what your options are, without unnecessary jargon or pressure.
