When you land a job finally, the important work isn’t over. It’s essential to do your best to impress your boss and teammates right from the start. First impressions count; your supervisor and colleagues will judge you based on how you act and what you do from the very first day. It is much easier to start off on the right foot than it is to change their perceptions later.
Holly Paul, PricewaterhouseCooper’s U.S. recruiting leader, suggests the following tips to be sure you start off strong:
1. Time your arrival on the first day. Paul suggests: “Arrive early, but not too early, to demonstrate responsibility and passion.” Just as you planned to arrive at interviews about 15 minutes early, that’s a good interval for your first day, too. If you’re not familiar with traffic patterns getting to your new office, take a test run or get to the area early, then stop for coffee before going to the office. “Being early allows you to collect your thoughts, take a last minute stop to the bathroom and think about how you will exhibit your personal brand on day one,” Paul notes.
2. Think about your wardrobe. Select what you plan to wear in advance. Keep in mind what other people wear, but, Paul says that it’s “better to be overdressed than under dressed. Think about how people were dressed when you interviewed and pick something that allows you to fit in comfortably. Plan a neat and professional outfit to wear.”
3. Step up your company research.
4. Practice introducing yourself.
5. Ask questions.
6. Show what you know.
7. Communicate professionally.
8. Share your passions.
9. Hone those listening skills.
10. Take notes.
Read the entire post on my U.S. News & World Report column
photo by torley