ALT-1 The Keys to Making a Good first Impression at a new Job
A first impression may not last forever but it certainly does last so making a good one at your new job is a great way to make your life easier and your job more enjoyable. Here are some ways to make a good first impression at a new job:
1. Time keeping
Golden rule: do not be late! Being late on your first day or even during your first week at a new job is a cardinal sin. It gives your employer and colleagues the impression that you are not serious about your job and is generally irritating for people who need to spend time with you to help you get trained and settled in. It also makes the start to your day stressful, made even more so by the fact that it is a new job. This in turn, will mean that you will arrive at work stressed and flustered - not at your best.
2. Days off
Unless it is an emergency or pre-booked vacation agreed to by your employer, it is not advisable to take any time off during your first month in your new job.
It can give the impression that you are a slacker or not serious about your job - the job that you assured your boss when you were interviewed that you really really wanted.
3. Look professional, be professional
What you wear should be appropriate for your job and you should make sure that you look professional. If you look like a professional, people will automatically view you as a professional. Your behaviour and the way you carry yourself should also be professional - professional but also friendly. This is what you should be doing on an ongoing basis anyway, but as you get to know the people you work with and become more familiar with the job, you will and can naturally afford to relax a little. But initially, people will be watching and forming opinions - not necessarily in a scrutinising way, so the impression you portray is important.
4. Socialise
Different companies have different cultures when it comes to socialising but the more you take part, the faster you will feel like you are part of the team. If people see you are making an effort they will also make an effort to include you too. This can go further than social events - small things like popping into the kitchen to make a coffee when your colleagues are in there and starting conversations can make a huge difference.
