Making a positive first impression at a new job is extremely important and will shape your entire work experience at your new employer. Below are some crucial pieces of advice that will go a long way in winning over the hearts of your coworkers and managers. Your first impression is often the lasting impression, so all these suggestions should be utilized by new employees looking for a successful start.
Take Initiative
Let your coworkers know that you are a self-starter by taking initiative during your first few weeks at your new job. It is likely that as you are first starting out at a new job your workload will be lighter than usual, so take advantage of this opportunity to put forth your own ideas and projects. Your input will be remembered by senior management, especially when it comes time to decide who should be given more responsibility.
Be Seen
Always! It is always important to maintain a strong record of attendance, but it is particularly crucial when beginning a new job. To the best of your ability, avoid taking sick days and wait a period of at least a few months before taking a vacation. Equally important by showing up to work every day is coming early and staying later than required. Even a half hour extra in the morning and evening will go a long way to establishing your reputation as a hard worker. More than just physically being in the office, keep in mind that you are on company time and focus only on work-related tasks.
Listen first, Talk second
This might be a tough adjustment depending on where you are coming from, but it is always best to let your new coworkers speak first at meetings. There will be a time for you to make your own contributions after others have suggested their ideas, and they are more likely to be received in good taste if you wait your turn. There is a lot for you to learn about your new employer, so it is best to give yourself a chance to first absorb information before dictating to others. Moreover, by always speaking first you risk being perceived as an arrogant know-it-all.
Stay Away from Office Politics
Every office will have its own tensions and internal politics. Getting involved in these discussions as a new coworker will undoubtedly create rifts between you and some of your coworkers. As a newly hired employee, simply avoid these conversations. If you are present for a heated conversation about politics or religion, try your best to leave unscathed by keeping a comfortable silence.
Keep Meticulous Records
The only person who will be keeping a careful account of all your achievements is you. This is important for several reasons, both for success at your present employer and at any future company. It will also make you feel better at the end of a long workday, knowing that you have made a positive contribution at the office. Additionally, these records will be significant down the line when you are involved in discussions related to raises and promotions.
Create a Relationship with Your Manager
This does not mean informing your boss of every minute detail of your workday, but it does mean impressing upon your boss that you are a hardworking employee. Make sure your boss is aware that you are dedicated to your job and motivated to succeed at your new company, because this is how your boss will remember you in the future. If the situation presents itself, finding a personal mentor from one of your superiors would be an even more ideal situation.
Don’t be Shy—Ask in order to Learn!
Everyone remembers their first day of work when there was still a lot of ambiguity about how the company functions. The only way that you’ll learn the necessary information to perform your job effectively is by asking lots of questions during your first several days. Your coworkers will be able to help you succeed, but they cannot read your mind. If you are having trouble, seek out an experienced coworker and ask for some help.
