First Impression Matter - Your First Day at New Job

The first day of a new job is crucial in determining how your new employer perceives you. In this period your supervisor, coworkers & subordinates will all be making crucial judgments about you. Hence, you cannot afford to give a wrong impression to them.

The ways, in which you present yourself & communicate help people to form opinions of you, so it is necessary to put your best foot forward, ensuring the right people notice your effort.

Preparing for the first day

Your first day is going to be tiring & exhausting, and anxiety will increase your stress levels. You will make first journey to work, will be introduced to new people & in the effort to create a good impression you may feel tired.

So it is advisable to get a good night’s sleep before first day. Be prepared with your clothes, paperwork & travel & leave time for discrepancies so that you arrive well in advance at work.

Before your first day at job, read as much about the company you can find – internet, publications etc. get you research from all sources - go on the corporate website, copies of brochure etc.

Having as much information as you can about the company’s culture, values & market positioning you will ensure that you are one step ahead of the pack.

Some Dos & Don’ts for the first day

There are some dos & don’ts to follow to ensure that you create the best first impression:

Dos…

Arrive early at work
Make sure you are dressed businesslike and look clean & well groomed.
Make an effort to show your enthusiasm & motivation
Be prepared with how you will introduce yourself
Introduce yourself to people you meet & remember names and their position within the company
Try getting and understanding the organization structure – this will help you in understanding the formal structure
Try to demonstrate your strengths and key skills as soon as possible
Ask as many questions you want & don’t be afraid to say if you don’t understand something – your employer will sure help at this stage
Open your mouth with a poise and always think before you speak – better speak late than regret

Don’t…

Don’t be very quiet or very loud
Don’t do nothing - if you have finished your work, let the boss know & find something else useful to do
Don’t ask if you can go home early on your day one or try to book a leave – this should not your priority in the first day

Hopefully, this article will useful to you.