Frequently asked questions

The questions new starters ask most, all in one place. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch and we'll be happy to help.

Your first week

Where do I go on my first day?

Head to reception at your site — Contoso House, or your local office — where someone will be expecting you. If you're working from home, your People Manager will send joining instructions in advance.

What should I bring on day one?

We'll confirm the details before you start, but it usually includes ID for your right-to-work check and your bank details for payroll. Keep an eye out for your joining email.

What is a buddy?

Your buddy is a friendly colleague who helps you settle in, shows you around and answers the everyday questions in your first few weeks. You don't need to arrange this — one will be assigned to you.

How do I get my ID badge?

Your security pass for building access is sorted on your first day. Please keep it with you while you're on site, as you'll need it to get around.

Pay & benefits

When will I be paid?

Contoso pays monthly, on the last working day of each month, straight into your bank account. Make sure your bank details are set up in the HR system so your first payment runs smoothly.

What is the Contoso share scheme?

Eligible colleagues can receive free shares in the company, so you share in Contoso's success. The People Team can explain how it works and when you become eligible.

How do I book holiday?

Holiday is booked through the HR system and approved by your People Manager. If you're not sure how much leave you have or how to request it, just ask your manager or the People Team.

Is there a pension?

Yes — Contoso offers a workplace pension. You'll find details in your joining information, and the People Team can answer any questions about how it works.

Systems & IT

When do I get my laptop?

Your laptop is provided on your first day, set up for your role, with someone on hand to help you get signed in.

How do I set up my login?

You'll set up your single sign-on during your first day, which gives you access to most systems with one set of credentials. If you get stuck, the IT Service Desk will help.

What systems will I use?

The main ones are the HR system for pay and holiday, the intranet (the Hub) for news and resources, and Microsoft 365 and Teams for everyday work. Your team will introduce any tools specific to your role.

Who do I contact if I have an IT problem?

The IT Service Desk is your first port of call for any tech issue. They're friendly and quick to help — your buddy can point you to how to reach them.

Culture & everyday questions

What is the Ministry of Fun?

The Ministry of Fun is Contoso's long-running team dedicated to making this an enjoyable place to work, organising events and activities throughout the year. It's a big part of what makes Contoso, Contoso.

Are there staff networks or communities I can join?

Yes — there are welcoming staff networks and communities you can join to meet people and feel at home. Keep an eye on the What's On page and the Hub for details.

What wellbeing support is available?

Contoso offers a range of wellbeing resources and people to help you look after your health at work and at home. The People Team can point you to what's available.

Who is my main point of contact?

Your People Manager is your main point of contact and will guide your first weeks. For day-to-day questions, your buddy is always a friendly place to start.

Who do I contact if I still have a question?

You can reach the People Team via the Contact page or by emailing newstarters@contoso.com. We're always happy to help.

Life at Contoso

Who is my manager?

Everyone has a People Manager who leads your team and is your main point of contact. You'll meet them on day one, and you can confirm who they are from your offer letter, the HR system, or by asking the People Team. There's more on the About page.

Who is the CEO?

Contoso's Chief Executive Officer is Alex Morgan, supported by a senior leadership team across the company. You can read a little more on the About page. (Names here are illustrative for this demo.)

How do I get a new or replacement laptop?

Your laptop is provided on day one. If you need a replacement or different kit later on, raise a request with the IT Service Desk — see Systems & IT for details.

Is there a Cycle to Work scheme?

Yes — Contoso runs a Cycle to Work scheme to help you spread the cost of a bike, plus secure bike storage and showers on site. See Life at Contoso for more.

Is there a car sharing or car pooling scheme?

Yes — there's a car-share noticeboard and online list to help colleagues who live nearby team up and split costs. The People Team can point you to it, and there's more on the Life at Contoso page.

Can I bring my children to the office?

Contoso is family-friendly and welcomes children visiting now and then — for example to meet your team, a short visit in the school holidays, or at our family days. Just give your manager a heads-up first and keep them supervised. See Life at Contoso.

Is parking available, and can I charge an electric car?

On-site and nearby parking is available but limited, so spaces are allocated — ask the People Team about a permit. There are also electric-vehicle charging points. See Life at Contoso for facilities.

Do we work from home, or in the office?

Most teams work in a hybrid way, with the balance agreed between you and your People Manager — often around two to three days in the office. More on the Life at Contoso page.

What should I do if I'm off sick?

Let your People Manager know as early as you can — a quick call or message first thing is all that's needed. Your manager and the People Team will explain how sick leave and pay work. See Health & wellbeing.