5 Things You Really Don't Need To Buy For Your New Job

Just like the first day at school, the first day of a new job can be equal parts nerve-wracking, terrifying, and exciting. Around every corner is a new opportunity to succeed — and to mess up. And for most of us, the two things occupying your mind will probably be how to arrive prepared and how to make a great first impression.

As your first day approaches, it might be tempting to go “job supplies” shopping. However, there’s a difference between coming prepared to shock-and-awe and going all out because of the desire to meet specific role expectations. 

Other than documentation needed to fill out tax forms, new employees should never feel pressured to bring all new personal equipment. If you’re unsure about what classifies as workplace provisions and personal necessities, check out these 6 things you really don’t need to buy for a new job. 

1. Clothing

Some jobs may require employees to wear uniforms, safety gear, or certain styles of dress that match the companies brand. Most of these outfits' components (like shirts and hats) should be provided by the employer. 

For those who work in an office setting, attire is much more in your control. Unless you typically like to spend high dollars on your clothes, there’s no reason to go all out on updating a wardrobe. And if you feel pressured to shop for new outfits that are flashy or trendy, that should be a red flag about your future workplace. Is somewhere where you're judged for how "cool" your clothes are really a place you want to grow your career?

2. Office supplies

A well-stocked office is a well run office. While you may have your favorite brands, don’t feel like you need to come ready with your own supplies - especially if they’re integral to your performance!

Most employers should provide you with the common office necessities. If products like printer paper, paper clips, or notebooks are vital for your position, you can expect the office to provide them. However, be prepared to share, because if the office is providing for you, they are also providing for your co-workers.

Also, most offices provide workers with supplies to keep everyone relatively healthy. This includes sanitary items like hand and dish soap, clean wipes, and hand sanitizer, as well as different first-aid medicines like ibuprofen and band-aids. However, if you prefer to use your own, it never hurts to be too prepared — no one like a case of the office flu!

3. Computers

Similar to office supplies, required technology is iis necessary to complete your work and likely provided by the employer. Employers also tend to pay for computer programs, such as word processors or memberships to online tools. Many offices refuse to allow employees to use their own technological devices in order to better monitor their employees. If this is the case, it's vital to remember not to use your work computer for social media, personal shopping, or any other actions that the employers may consider “unacceptable.”

4. Other technology

The same advice applies to cell phones, tablets, camera, and scanners. If the technology is necessary to complete the job, it is up to the employer to provide the materials. There’s no reason for you to break the bank paying for items that every employee needs.

5. Educational courses

Another aspect that many new employees worry about is being qualified for a new position. If your new job requires a certain level of training or certification that you didn’t have upon hire, don’t feel pressured to pay for the classes yourself. Many companies offer on-the-job training to help get employees up to speed, and tuition reimbursements if you need to take further classes. And even more companies prefer having inexperienced employees to mold to the company standards. 

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