How to Make a Good First Impression on New Co-Workers

How to Make a Good First Impression on New Co-WorkersHow to Make a Good First Impression on New Co-WorkersYou know what they say about first impressions - they linger. So as you begin a new job, it makes sense to consider the best ways to impress your co-workers and form a good connection with them early on. High on the list dressing the part. Youll want to choose an outfit thats carefully calibrated to match the formality level youve observed from staffers during your interviews at the company. When in doubt, wear an outfit similar to the ones you wore to interviews - and opt for more formal, not less. Theres more to making a good impression than your clothes. Youll want to be yourself, but also embrace that old maxim about faking it til you make it. That is, even if youre feeling some nerves, carry yourself with confidence. Here are six ways to make a good impression on your new co-workers- so your relationship can get off to a strong start. Arrive on Time and Ready to Work G enerally, your new boss or human resources contact will let you know when to arrive at the amtsstube for your first day along with where to go. You may need to tackle paperwork before you can really get started sometimes, your first day will be devoted to orientation. If the company hasnt reached out with details, you can email your manager to ask when you should arrive and where to go. Be prompt aim to arrive early, since being tardy on your first day sends a worrisome note. Be sure to bring all paperwork, as requested, as well as a writing implement and notebook, so youre prepared to take notes as you sit in on meetings and get information from HR. Consider Asking for a Tour Spot someone who seems extra friendly? If your manager or a human resources person hasnt already shown you around the office space, ask a co-worker if they have time to give you a quick tour. Theres nothing more awkward than not knowing where the bathroom is, and it can be helpful to know meeting room loca tions and where to stock up on supplies. Get yourself situated early on, so you can feel confident heading to-and-from meetings and going about your day. Master the First Meet Make eye contact as you shake hands with new co-workers. Smile - its best to have a confident, upbeat attitude. If you have a chance, and if youre bad with names or faces, jot down peoples names, job titles or responsibilities, and other details in that notebook you brought. That way, you wont wind up re-introducing yourself to people again and again. People appreciate it when you remember them. As much as possible, introduce yourself to people. If youre standing near someone by the coffee maker or passing in the hallway, you can smile, and say, Hi, todays my first day My name is Albert, and Ill be working with the XYZ team. What do you work on? Basically, youll want to embrace the most outgoing parts of your personality. Introverts, follow these strategies when you start a new job. Have an Intro Speec h Prepped As you meet people one-on-one, or potentially at a team-wide meeting or welcome lunch, there may be a moment where youre expected to say a few words about yourself and your background. It can help to prepare a bit. You likely dont have to give a polished speech unless youre at high management or executive level, but its better not to fumble or blush your way through your elevator pitch about yourself. You can introduce yourself by talking about your work background and a few personal details and then wrap up by saying how excited you are to work at the new company. Heres an example Hi, everyone. So great to meet you all Just a little bit of information on me, for folks who didnt sit in on interviews Ive worked at ABC Company for the past four years, and prior to that I was with XYZ company. In both roles, I was responsible for project managing big launches. I live in Evanston, with a giant dog (ask me for pictures later) and my husband. Im really thrilled to be joining th e team here, and cant wait to get to know everyone here and work together closely Be Engaged and Professional Your first days are a good time to keep your cell phone on silent, avoid personal calls, and stay away from your personal email or recreational online browsing. You want to see attentive and focused on work. Sometimes that can be hard on the first day or two- you might not actually have work to do. See if you can spend time browsing the companys website. Ask if there are any meetings you can sit in on or simple projects you can start on. You may find it tempting in these early days to suggest ways the company could operate better. Ideas are good, but sharing improvement strategies in early days, or acting like a know-it-all, can be off-putting. Instead of making suggestions, consider asking why things are done the way they are. End on a Good Note Dont be the first to leave the office. Take advantage of quiet moments at the end of your day to write down impressions, questions, ideas for projects, etc. Want to prep more? Here are even more ideas for how to get ready for a super successful first day at a new job.