Starting a new job is always at least a little nerve-wracking. It means familiarizing yourself with a new work system and workplace culture, which can be confusing at first, especially if you came from a freelance job that has a more flexible setup than your current one. Despite these, there is the need to make a good impression.
Do not take the first day or the first weeks of work lightly. This short period is a crucial time in which your supervisors and colleagues begin forming their opinions about you. That is why you must show up with these three P’s: preparedness, punctuality, and poise.
How to Make Sure You Are Well Prepared
A well-prepared employee is efficient and available. Here are a few tips on making sure you capably manage the work demands of the day while you get used to your new job.
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Read up on your role, the company, and other responsibilities before the first day
You should have already done your research about the company’s mission and vision for your interview, but it does not hurt to review these before coming in for your first day. Review your job description so that you know what to expect to do compared to the roles of your new colleagues and managers.
Your first couple of days usually involve an office tour, an orientation of the projects your organization is currently handling, and what your workdays will typically look like. When you come in prepared, you can quickly form a complete picture of your workplace environment and adjust as needed.
Also, it helps you to learn about various skills beforehand. For instance, if you realize that your work will entail the use of spreadsheets, familiarize yourself with multiple formulas and shortcuts to make your job easier. Take free consultations on tax relief for better management of your taxes, too.
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Know how to introduce yourself
The colleagues you will be meeting for the first time will be curious about who you are. These introductions are already a ripe opportunity to start building teamwork with your workmates and even friendships with them.
You can briefly list your introduction about yourself, from how long you have been working to who your freelance clients were and what your role is now. This way, your introduction will not feel as robotic as a rehearsed introductory speech about yourself.
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Do not be afraid to ask questions
If you are afraid to ask stupid questions in your first week, do not be. Ample preparation leads you to ask relevant questions that help you accomplish your job better. Asking questions also allows you to seem curious and eager to learn, which leaves a good impression on your managers and colleagues.
Why Be Punctual
Punctuality does not just save you stress from rushing to clock in at a particular time. It is also a strong display of your respect for the time of your workmates. Remember that a delay on your end can delay the schedules of your colleagues, too.
You are also evaluated according to various factors, including punctuality at work. Make sure that you are present at the time you agreed to show up for work and that you are available during work hours. Be on time for meetings, events, and deadlines to show that you are a team player who is sensitive to the workload of other colleagues.
How to Stay Poised
You must also look the part. People first form impressions from what they see, so do not give your managers and colleagues a chance to see you in a bad light on your first week.
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Dress appropriately and comfortably
Know the dress code for your building and workplace and dress accordingly. When in doubt, keep it sharp and simple. You need not be flashy on your first day since you hope to make yourself look approachable, but do not underdress.
Also, do not dress up at the expense of comfort. Make sure that you can easily move around in your clothes since you will be meeting new people and touring the office.
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Listen more
When you are a new hire, there is usually the eagerness to make a good impression by talking more. Be sociable and meet your colleagues, but always take time to listen. Listening teaches you nuances about your workplace culture and helps you understand the main goals of your leadership.
Keep in mind that your first few days at a new job are primarily a time to learn and build professional relationships.