Though the hurdle of passing the interview and landing the job is behind you, making a great first impression at your new job can still be quite a stressful experience. You’re excited to start working at the new job, impress your boss, and get off on the right foot with your colleagues. The good part about all of this is that there are several things you can do during your first week that will help you make that great first impression.
Arrive Early, Stay Late
During your first week at the job, it’s a good idea to make sure that your coworkers see you there as they arrive at work. Likewise, it’s advisable that you stay until others have gone home. You won’t make a good impression if you’re among the first heading out the door while your colleagues are still at their desks. Even if schedules are flexible, it’s better to play it safe for a while.
Dress for Success
When it comes to the way you dress, you should keep the same rules that apply during the interview and choose something slightly above what everyone else is wearing. By overdressing, you show a positive attitude towards your new workplace and denote self-respect. Over time, as you settle into your job and get a better sense of the dress code, you can adapt accordingly.
Take the Initiative
While in some workplaces you’ll be given a tour around the office to be introduced to your new colleagues, this is not always the case. If it doesn’t happen, it’s best that you take the proactive approach and introduce yourself. Even if some may come to you, don’t wait for everyone to do so.
Prepare Good Questions and Answers
Another way of showing interest is by asking thoughtful questions to your boss and colleagues. Prepare some of these questions in advance and actually write the answers down when you receive them. Don’t just feign interest and nod in agreement.
It’s also wise to have some answers prepared, in case you’re asked about previous jobs and what your expectations are at your new one. Even if you’re past job wasn’t ideal or exciting, don’t complain about it. Talk about your work history in a concise and positive light. Let people know that you’re excited about your new job. Also, keep in mind that your new role may be something that your colleagues don’t know much about.
Be Helpful and Relaxed
We all know that a simple smile can go a long way in making a good first impression. By being relaxed and acting yourself, the chances are that you’ll smile more. Also, offer help whenever possible, but don’t go out of your way to do so. You don’t want to appear as a suck-up or look desperate to curry favor with your new superiors. That said, you should help out your boss as much as you do your coworkers.
MyComputerCareer, an organization specializing in IT training and qualification, will help all of its students with their job hiring process, such as training in job search skills, resume and cover letter writing, networking, and interviewing skills. Also, our placement professionals will provide you with career opportunities through our network of employers looking to hire MyComputerCareer students. For more information, contact us today!