Your First Day at Work
These phrases will help you introduce yourself, navigate the office, and make simple small talk on your first day at a new job.
Key Phrases
Bonjour, je m'appelle Julien. Je commence aujourd'hui.
neutralHello, my name is Julien. I am starting today.
Use this standard greeting when meeting any new coworker.
Salut, moi c'est Julien. Je suis le nouveau.
casualHi, I'm Julien. I'm the new guy.
Very informal, use with peers you will work closely with. (Use 'la nouvelle' if you are female).
Où est-ce que je peux trouver la cuisine ?
neutralWhere can I find the kitchen?
A clear, standard way to ask for locations around the office.
Elle est où, la machine à café ?
casualWhere's the coffee machine?
In spoken French, it is very common to put the question word at the end of the sentence.
Je dois parler à qui pour mon ordinateur ?
neutralWho do I need to talk to about my computer?
A direct, everyday way to find the right person for help.
À qui est-ce que je peux demander de l'aide ?
politeWho can I ask for help?
A bit softer and more polite when you don't know the team well.
À quelle heure est-ce qu'on mange le midi ?
neutralWhat time do we eat lunch?
Spoken French almost always uses 'on' instead of 'nous' for 'we'.
Est-ce que je peux prendre ma pause maintenant ?
politeCan I take my break now?
A polite way to check with your manager before stepping away.
Tu habites loin du bureau ?
casualDo you live far from the office?
Safe, simple small talk for the break room or water cooler.
Je vais partir. Bonne soirée !
neutralI'm heading out. Have a good evening!
Uses the near-future tense to naturally announce that you are leaving.