You’ve been hired to fill an open position at your company, and it’s time to start the new job! To make sure you stand out from the crowd and get off on the right foot, follow these tips to make your first productive day as smooth as possible so you can start impressing your boss on day one of your new job.
1) Prepare your business card
That first impression will start with you handing over your business card. Business cards are crucial for establishing credibility and professionalism, so make sure yours is top-notch.
Take a look at my post on how to design a great business card if you need some help getting started. And, of course, don’t forget to bring enough copies for everyone in your office! (Trust me—you never know who you might run into.) You should also include any special contact information like an email address or cell phone number that you want your new boss to have.
2) Learn your coworkers names
When you first start a new job, it’s tempting to hunker down and focus only on your work. But coworkers can become your best allies when you need help—and it’s especially important that they know how to find you when you’re needed.
Knowing names of coworkers not only makes for better teamwork but helps promote inclusivity in companies. You don’t have to memorise every single name from day one (though try), but make an effort to learn at least one or two names per day. If you’re having trouble remembering, consider asking them about their weekend or family life; it will be easier to remember their name if you associate them with something personal.
3) Arrive early
Arriving early is a great way to make a good first impression. It shows you’re a team player and also means you can get set up before everyone else arrives. Be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time (and be sure not to look at your phone while sitting in your car).
Make sure you have all of your materials ready, too: don’t forget that backup presentation that covers everything! And finally, when it comes to making introductions, remember that it’s better to ask than assume—ask someone who looks like they work there if they know where your new boss will be; or check with reception if there are any other offices you should visit before finding yours. The worst thing you can do is walk into an office and ask for directions; people will notice.
4) Be friendly
Maintain a positive, outgoing attitude, and smile often. A friendly attitude can make you seem warmer, friendlier and more approachable—all of which are good qualities in an employee. Be sure to greet your boss and co-workers as soon as you arrive at work.
This will set a positive tone for your first day on the job, even if it’s only for one day. Plus, they’ll remember you when it comes time to give performance reviews or award raises. You might even find that being friendly gets you invited out with your new colleagues after work!
5) Don’t take too much coffee breaks
A common mistake new employees make is taking too many coffee breaks. You’re not expected to dive right into all your work with no coffee in your system, but you don’t want to be that guy who takes every break for two hours before coming back for another hour of work. Keep yourself productive and efficient by limiting your trips to refresh yourself at a coffee shop during business hours.
Author Bio:
His experiences working for top brands like Unilever and Samsonite inspired him to write ‘The Rules of Work. Shivank set out to provide non-bullshitty, fact-based career advice that helps millennial workers get more opportunities and grow their careers faster. This blog is where he documents the daily challenges he and his colleagues face. Check him out on OfficeProductivity.org.