Making a positive imprint when starting a new job

Since you have already landed the job, you know that you have proved that you can do the job. But you have other more valuable skills that are not on your resume, and these skills can contribute to the job more than you think. Here are five ways to help make a good impression when you are starting a new job.

The first skill is to have proper etiquette. That refers to not only the way you act, but the way you present yourself. You should have a positive attitude and good manners. “Please” and “thank you” go a long way. The way you dress is very important. If you dress the way you do when you go out to parties and clubs, that might get you fired on the spot. You should look clean shaven and decent. Your best bet is to be overdressed on your first day rather than under-dressed. Get the feel of things and then make a decision on what is appropriate to wear on the job.

The second skill is listening. They say that you should listen more than you talk. You need to show your co-workers that you can be part of a team. You might come across as too ambitious and eager if you are trying to change the world, which could lead you to being shot down often, even if you know your ideas would be brilliant.

The third skill is not to be a “Chatty Cathy”. When trying to make friends in the office, it is better to listen and be part of a team at first and then try to make friends. It is better to get a feel of people instead of going head first and having co-workers running for their cubicles. Also, avoid the office gossip. Avoid conflict during your first couple weeks, you are better off not making enemies right away.

The fourth skill is to pace yourself. It is better to “under promise and over deliver.” You would rather come out with great looking projects and feeling accomplished instead of biting more off than you can chew. You are better off taking a slower pace and making a great looking smaller project than an okay big project.

The fifth skill is to get to know the company. You should learn everything you can about the company itself, the mission of the company, its history and activities that the company is involved in. The more you know, the better off you are and the more of a team player you can be. If at all possible, try to see if you can get a mentor that is willing to show you the ropes and some personal insight into the company.

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By Katherine Bangert