How to Make a Great First Impression at Work in 7 Simple Steps

The Importance of Impressions

The first day of work can be harrowing. You’ve got to familiarise yourself with your surroundings, set up your workspace and sink your teeth into your new role. On top of that, you will be meeting your boss and your colleagues for the first time. 

Although it’s a bit scary, it’s critical that you make a great first impression on your first day of work as it demonstrates a level of confidence, trustworthiness, enthusiasm and congeniality – all of which can endear you to the people with whom you’ll be spending a majority of your time.

What You Can Do

To ensure that you leave a positive and memorable impression, follow these easy seven steps:

1. Just Breathe

The thought of talking to people on your first day can induce nervousness and/or stress, which could lead you to make errors or forget important information. In turn, this can make you appear restless, unfocused and even careless in the eyes of your peers.

Collect yourself by taking a few seconds to breathe in deeply through the nose and mouth, exhale, and then repeat. The more air that flows into your body, the more calm and less anxious you will feel.

Try practising breathing techniques for a few minutes daily until the first day of working arrives. This will help you feel calm and relaxed, both physically and mentally, when the time comes for you to meet your colleagues.

2. Dress the Part

Not only does dressing in comfortable and smart clothing make you feel confident and helps exude an air of professionalism, but it also sends the signal that you are serious about your appearance and care about how others will see you.

Check the company’s website (or social media accounts) for any information about their dress code. Some companies and businesses such as a law firm or a bank will require that you wear formal, conservative outfits such as a two-piece suit, a pantsuit, a blouse and skirt, etc. Others may opt for smart-casual attire (mixing business wear with casual elements) or casual wear (everyday comfortable clothing).

Prepare your outfit the night before (don’t forget to check the weather forecast so that you can prepare your outfit accordingly). That way, you don’t have to scramble at the last minute to organise your attire.

3. Be Punctual

Preferably, you want to arrive earlier or on time on your first day of work. Not only will this give you the opportunity to settle in, relax and gauge the workplace culture, but it will also paint you as dependable, responsible and enthusiastic. Plus, it can also indicate a good sense of time management on your part.

4. Show the Right Attitude

Again, meeting new co-workers can be daunting, but in order to build and develop strong connections with them, you need to step up and introduce yourself. 

Politely introduce yourself with a strong handshake. As you speak, smile and make eye contact with the other person to create a connection between the both of you. Talk a little about yourself, ask them questions like “What’s your role at the company?” or “Do you know of any good places nearby to eat at?”, and tell them how much you look forward to working with them and the company at large.

5. Ask Questions

Your colleagues were once newbies, too: they know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed or a little bit lost to the point they need someone to steer them in the right direction. 

If you need guidance or clarification, don’t be afraid to ask your boss or your colleagues for help or ask them questions. For example, if you’re not sure about what information to include in a client report or how to structure it, talk about it with one of your colleagues who’s been communicating with this particular client or raise it with your boss.

By asking questions and/or asking for help, you’re showing that you’re willing to learn and want to correctly complete the work at hand.

6. Take Notes

Even after the on-boarding process is complete, there’s still a deluge of new information to take in. Some of it can be taught, other times it can only be learned on the go. Whatever the case, it’s important to take notes as you go along. Keep a notebook and pen handy during meetings and training sessions.

By taking notes, you’re showing your interest, your ambition, and an eagerness to learn.

7. Be Friendly AND Professional

Socialising with co-workers is important, but it’s one of many facets of your working life. Remember, you have your work to do, as do your colleagues – neither of you can afford any distractions. If you place too much focus on socialising on your first day, neither you nor your colleagues will get your tasks done, which can result in overtime and/or heavier workloads. These can sour anyone’s mood (and not least your new relationships).

So, to maintain positive relationships and productivity levels, prioritise your tasks, projects and duties. Remember, there will be time later when you and your co-workers can relax and chat, such as a morning coffee-run or a spot of lunch at a restaurant!

Look to The Future Without Fear

By following these steps, making a lasting first impression on your first day will become easier to achieve. Just remember to relax, display a great attitude and show initiative where you can. Best of luck!