You've undoubtedly already been told that it's crucial to make a good first impression. However, what exactly does it mean to create a good first impression at work, and how exactly does one go about doing so? We have developed a step-by-step strategy for you to follow so that you may get off to a strong start in your new employment or internship.
Get adequate sleep
During your preparation for a significant test or event, you may have been given this piece of guidance. Your performance at work will be much improved if you are able to get a sufficient amount of sleep each night. You'll be able to focus more easily, feel better overall, and have more energy. At work, if you give the impression of being sleepy or slow, your colleagues won't think highly of you.
To properly attire oneself
Make sure you find out what the appropriate attire is for the workplace. You generally won't need to put on a suit unless you're going to be working in an industry like finance or law. In spite of this, you should always strive to present a nice and professional look, and this is particularly important when you are just starting out. This indicates that you want to steer clear of anything that is designed for the gym, is torn, or exposes an excessive amount of flesh.
Pay attention to the clothing that your boss and colleagues wear so that you may learn from their example. When working remotely, it is equally important to ensure that you seem to have your act together on video. If you want to seem cool while wearing sweatpants, simply make sure they are covered up whenever you are photographed.
Also, keep in mind that it is usually preferable to be somewhat overdressed as opposed to underdressed.
Get there a little bit early (or at least on time)
Doesn't it seem straightforward enough? Avoid arriving late to your workplace. Your reliability and sense of responsibility are shown to your employer when you arrive at work either a few minutes early or exactly on time. This is the kind of impression you want to provide, after all.
Make sure you wake up on time by setting an alarm and giving yourself plenty of time to get dressed. Find out how long it will take you to get there whether you drive or use public transit. Then, you should factor in a little bit of additional time in case you encounter any unexpected delays or traffic along the way. It is preferable to arrive early rather than late; this will give you time to get organized and get some coffee before the start of the workday.
Make sure to smile and maintain eye contact.
Always remember to flash a friendly grin and make direct eye contact while you're conversing with new employees for the first time. This will make you look more approachable, and it will leave a positive impression on them of who you are as a person. Additionally, a pleasant attitude is infectious; thus, it is important to convey positive vibes into the workplace.
Please present yourself.
Being the "new person" in a workplace may be a scary experience. But please keep in mind that you were all, at one time or another, the new person. If your boss doesn't take the effort to introduce you to everyone on the team, you should go ahead and do it yourself. Introduce yourself to everyone on the team. Introduce yourself, tell them a little bit about yourself, and tell them that you are looking forward to working with them. Being pleasant is important.
In addition, make it a point to introduce yourself to coworkers whenever you see them, whether it's in the break room, before to a meeting, or even while you're waiting for the elevator. You should always make an effort to be nice and introduce yourself to new people you come across. In the event that you are not very adept at making small chat, you may ask them for suggestions on where to go for lunch.
Make the most of any opportunities to network or attend social events held at your workplace. Your job experience will be vastly improved by your ability to converse with others and cultivate professional relationships.
Act on your own behalf.
If you've just taken a new position, there's a good chance you're thrilled about the possibilities it brings. When embarking on new initiatives, make sure to demonstrate this level of excitement to your staff. If a colleague asks for your assistance with anything, the appropriate response is to reply "yes," provided that you have the capacity to assist them while still completing your own tasks. This will help others regard you as a team player, which will increase the likelihood that they will be willing to assist you in the future.
Ask questions
At a new work, the best way to learn is to engage in a lot of questioning, therefore don't be scared to do so. Even after you have completed the onboarding process for new employees and received training, it is probable that you may need to seek for clarification or direction as you go forward.
Your colleagues are most likely unaware if they are omitting facts that you need if they are doing so. When you ask questions, it will show them that you want to learn and do a good job at your work, which is something they will enjoy.
Listen and take notes
Consider the first few weeks of a new employment to be similar to a class that you are taking. Taking notes is the most effective strategy for remembering the plethora of information that will be presented to you. It is recommended that you always have a notepad and pen on hand, and that you bring them to every meeting that you attend.
Even after the first few weeks have passed, it is always the best practice to actively listen to what is being said and take notes! Therefore, get a head start and establish healthy routines for the years to come.
Put aside your mobile device.
It may feel like we're always on our phones, but you should fight the temptation to check your phone when you're at work. You don't want to give the impression that you're not working or distracted, particularly if your employer is in the vicinity. If you get a call that seems essential, you should get up and take your phone with you as you leave the workplace. If that's not the case, you should save your scrolling until after lunch.
Maintain a cordial yet serious demeanor.
Engaging with friends, relatives, or classmates at school is not the same as interacting with other employees at work. Despite this, you should still make an effort to get to know your colleagues and be kind to them. You may begin to develop a sense of camaraderie with your coworkers by limiting the subjects of your chats to those that are connected to work.
Watching how the rest of your team gets along is probably your best bet right now. Some people may engage in more lighthearted banter and be more willing to talk about their families and other aspects of their private life. However, there are those people who would rather keep their personal life a secret. If someone asks you about your birthplace, your school, or your family, you should not hesitate to express what you like and ask them questions that are analogous to those they have asked you.