7 ways to make a good impression at your new job

It’s always a nerve-wracking time, but it really doesn’t have to be. Read our quick guide to having an exciting and positive first day at work.

1. Do your company research
Being knowledgeable about the business and the products / services it provides looks great in front of your new boss. So before you start your first day, try to find out the answers to some of the following:

• How many employees are there?
• How many offices they have and where are they located?
• When was the company established?
• Who are on the management team?
• Company financial information
• What are the products / services?
• Who are the customers?
• Who are their competitors?

2. Look the part
For your first day, it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed. You may have already been told what type of clothing is acceptable, but it’s always a good idea to scope out how everyone else dresses. There is no such thing as looking too professional! When you’re dressed to impress, confidence naturally ensues.

3. Be prepared and be interested
Fail to prepare, prepare to fail as our teachers used to tell us and that definitely applies here. Bring enough stationary supplies to be prepared for whatever may come your way. Ask questions and prove you’re genuinely interested in the business, your boss and your colleagues. Make sure you aren’t distracted and make sure you’re always smiling! You don’t want to be looking miserable…

4. Have a good attitude and be available
Smile and be approachable, you should definitely not be saying ‘No’ to anything on your first day. If your boss needs you, make sure you’re available. You’ll be pulled in many directions by various new colleagues, so make sure you check in with your boss throughout the day. Try to be as accommodating as possible when working with your new colleagues, if they show an interest in you, make sure you make an effort to get to know them too.

5. Make a friend
You should try to make one good friend on the first day. I know it’s easier said than done, but they can provide you with invaluable knowledge when you’re learning the do’s and don’ts of the new role. You’ll also feel far more comfortable knowing you can confide in someone from the beginning.

6. Don’t turn down lunch or a drink with colleagues
Be sociable! Even if you were super organised and prepared a lunch, if a colleague or your boss asks you to join them out for lunch, do it! If you’re friendly and approachable early on, your integration into the team and the company will be much easier. Get to know the people you work with, after all, you’ll be spending 40 hours a week with them!

7. Understand the office structure
It’s important to know where the office kitchen is. We all need coffee in the morning. One of the most important factors in succeeding at your job is understanding the structure of the office:

• Where is the office kitchen?
• Is there a canteen?
• Is there coffee and tea provided? Or do you have to buy your own?
• What time is lunch?
• Do the team go out once a month of even once a week for lunch?
• Do you have flexible working hours?

One last point… smile, relax and enjoy!