Many of us are so nervous about starting a new job, we forget that we're the ones the company needs and wants to welcome. Why not turn the tables, prepare properly and make the best first impression ever? Here's how!
Many of us are so nervous about starting a new job, we forget that we're the ones the company needs and wants to welcome. Why not turn the tables, prepare properly and make the best first impression ever? Here's how!
Remember the job interview stage? You did your research, dressed in your best, aimed to please. The pity is that many of us have a slight complacency (even if we're nervous) on our first days because we're home and dry - we've got the job, there's no more competition, they want you!
Think again - these days many new starters sign contracts that mean they can still be terminated in the first three to six months if they fail to perform as expected. Don't let it be you - make a great first impression and stick to it.
Do your research!
Before the job interview, you could probably only research the company, its history and some of the role you'd expect to do. Now that you're about to start, you should have access to the names and roles of other staff members. You'll also know what your department is and how it fits in to the corporate structure. Get on the net and look at what your department is doing, what its goals are, who are the key players? Do the same for the main competition of the company - many times you have to know the "enemy" as well as your own friends, as the saying goes. If you arm yourself with the same knowledge your colleagues have, you'll be one step ahead.
Don't be afraid to ask questions
On your first day, it's tempting to do the induction, smile and act nicely and have everything spelled out for you. That's fine, but why not ask questions or offer to help from the start? If you're seen as proactive, interested and engaged in what people are doing, it stands out much more than those who just go home at 5pm having shook a few hands and learned a few names.
Brush up on training
You'll know what your role involves, so maybe you have something on your CV that helped you get the job but that you know you're a bit rusty in. Whether it's creating reports in Excel or, for example, if you've been out of work for a while before landing this role, you might need other skills brushing up on such as time management or assertiveness training. Identify your weak spots - remember it's ok to reveal them if you're prepared to address them - and ask your line manager for further training. They'll be pleased you asked!
Do a dummy run
If it's a new job in a new part of town, do a dummy run to see how long it takes you to get there, where you're expected to park, what you should wear (judging by people going in the door) and what's in the local area. This will stop you being a bundle of stress - or worse, late - on your first day. Cool, calm, and confident, you can walk in the door and get on with the job.
They say first impressions count - make sure yours does too!
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