How to make a first impression in your new job

Being the rookie in the organisation can be a bit daunting and both challenging and exciting. After going through the interview process, you know how much first impressions count. Now that you have accepted the role, it’s time to think about how to make first impressions on your first day at work are on point too. Here are a few tips for starting the right way at your new job:

1. Start on a positive note

It’s best to start with a foundation of shared positive experiences. Your first few conversations with new colleagues are crucial so it is important to have a positive attitude, leave any personal problems at home and show enthusiasm and appreciation for being given the opportunity to be part of the team. 

2. Look the part

Dress code varies from corporate to casual depending on the workplace and culture. The best way to decide what you wear is appropriate is to ask before your first day or observe those you may have met with during the interview process. 

3. Remember names 

No one will look down on you for not remembering everyone’s name on your first day, but now is the time to focus on remembering them. Try to write down a few notes about people you meet throughout the day including their name, title and perhaps a fact or two about them. Writing it down might speed up the process of remembering who you’ve met and what their role is within the organisation. 

4. Ask questions

No one expects you to know it all when starting a new job so it is your opportunity to ask as many questions as you can until you understand a task and adapt to the new processes and systems.

Communication, participation and your ability to listen will go a long way and get noticed

5. Take initiative

In most cases, you will be eased into tasks at the start of a new job. Starting slowly allows you to find your mark. As you are given your first tasks and get familiar with the processes and systems, take the initiative and ask for more work.

6. Find a mentor

As you get to know more people within the organisation, begin thinking about developing a relationship with a senior co-worker in the organisation. Having someone you look up to and trust can have many benefits and can help you advance your career.

7. Stay organised and set goals

If you’re not super organised, develop a system to keep track of meetings and projects assigned to you in your first week. Decide ahead by setting up goals for yourself and review them as you progress in the role. What’s important for you in the first three months of a job will differ from what you’d like to achieve after 6 months at the job. 

8. Put your networking cap on

Take advantage of every opportunity you get to network with key people in the organisation by attending meetings, conferences and other gatherings. Use every opportunity to meet more colleagues and grow your contacts list. 

Above all, it’s important to stay true to who you are and keep an open mind. Best of luck on your first day and all the days that follow.