Want to leave a great impression on your first day at work? Follow these 5 tips

Feeling nervous on the first day of your is more common than you think.

There is a burning need to prove yourself on your first day. It is also very common to feel nervous as a newbie. You are new to the job, and are not yet familiar with the do’s and don’ts, of the unwritten rules of the organisation, whom to approach for mentorship, etc…

However no need to panic. One thing you must remember, while it is necessary to come across as professional and capable from day one, no one is expecting miracles from you on the first day.


Here’s how you can make a positive impression on your employers and team members on your first day

Dress Right

Remember you got to look your best on the first day. First impressions are last impressions and all…

While that does not mean that you have to step out in the latest fashion, you must ensure that you are coming across as professional.

• Ensure your nails are clean and well-cut.
• If your hair is not shampooed or frizz-free, tie it back with a ponytail.
• Moderation is the key when it comes to makeup. So ditch the more flamboyant colours and opt for subdued hues like pink and beige.
• Your clothes should be clean and well-ironed.
• If you don’t know whether your new workplace allows casual wear, stick to power dressing. Better to be on the safe side than err.

Be On Time

You don’t want to be late for the first day, do you? Moreover, late arrivals lead to pay cuts and are also marked in your employee record. Being known as the perpetual ‘late Kate’ can also play spoilsport when it comes to getting a raise or a promotion. So be on time from day one. Do your research on how much time it would take from commuting from your home to your workplace. Make arrangements accordingly.

Listen

The ability to listen, really listen i.e absorb the information coming from someone, not just nod listlessly as they speak, is an asset. Make an effort to listen to what your manager and team leader say. This will have two effects:

• Most human beings are more affable to people who they think pay heed to their words. Moreover, the vast majority of ffolks do not like to repeat themselves. Your co-workers are not an exception.
• You will get to learn vital information. Once you listen carefully to what is being shared with you via pep talks, virtual meetings, and one-on-one conservations you will find that many of your doubts are getting cleared automatically.

Do Your Research

Most of the queries that you have can be cleared if you pay a visit to the company website. Go through the links shared there, download a white paper or two. Read through some blogs if possible. ( this becomes even more important if you have joined as a writer/content developer) Get to know about their achievements, mission, and vision. The more you know, the more you will be familiar with what your new employer expects from you.

Be Organised

The first day can get a bit overwhelming as you are just getting to know your new workplace. It can also get a bit intimidating as you are hit with one new piece of information after another. Ensure you write it all down in bullet points, and take notes. Make a calendar of your upcoming projects and deadlines.

If pen and paper is not your cup of tea then you can use tools like Google Excel Sheet, and Evernote to record all the deliverables.