Starting a job: written terms, documents and first pay

Gather these facts

• The offer, contract, handbook version, named employer and actual start date.
• Pay frequency, first payday, hours, job location, probation and any conditional benefit.
• The onboarding document list, recipient, secure submission method and missing items.

The contract differs from the offer—what should I ask?

Compare the employer entity, job, pay components, hours, location and start date line by line. Ask which version controls and request clarification or a corrected copy before signing disputed terms. Mark clauses about training repayment, non-compete, confidentiality, deductions and intellectual property for separate review. A receipt for a handbook and agreement to a contract may have different effects; retain each document and the explanation you received.

Which documents should I provide, and to whom?

Ask why each item is needed and confirm the official HR or payroll channel. Identity, work-authorisation and bank details may be necessary for specific checks or payroll; a public CV or this website is not the place to submit them. Do not send passwords or unnecessary copies of medical records. Keep confirmation of submission, and use the employer’s documented process if an item is missing or an accommodation is required.

When does employment start, and how do I check my first pay?

Record the actual first work date and any induction, training or trial duties. Ask for the applicable written terms and how partial periods, training time and benefits are recorded. Compare the first payslip with the same period and ask payroll for unexplained differences. Document and timing obligations vary: the China law and British written-statement guidance below describe their own requirements. For an unpaid trial, record its duration, supervision and tasks and check local rules. Australian Fair Work guidance distinguishes a necessary supervised demonstration from work that must be paid. Do not treat probation as a reason to ignore pay or basic records.

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