As you’ve probably heard multiple times, first impressions are very important to a job seeker. It can easily make or break you.
But what does it mean to make a good impression? How do you do it?
Simple. Follow these few tips and you will be off to a great start!
Get Sufficient Sleep
Sleep is an important function that enables your body and mind to rejuvenate, leaving you energized and alert when you wake up. Without sufficient sleep, the brain cannot perform at its optimum level. You will appear lethargic or tired at work which won’t be perceived well by your co-workers.
Dress Appropriately
Make sure you ask the HR team for the official dress code for the company you are joining. Most companies expect the employees to wear official attires from Monday to Thursday, and smart casual from Friday to Saturday. Avoid anything that is meant for the gym, ripped, or reveals too much skin.
The same goes for those still working remotely. Make sure you look put together on video.
And anyway, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Be Punctual
Sounds doable, right? Tardiness is totally unacceptable. Either show up earlier than reporting time or right on time. This shows your colleagues that you take your job seriously and, you care about meeting deadlines. You are also perceived as someone dependable and responsible.
In most organizations, punctuality is actually synonymous with professionalism. So always be punctual so that you make a good impression!
Smile And Make Eye Contact
When meeting your colleagues, give a nice warm smile and maintain eye contact as you interact with them. This will help you appear friendly, and you’ll have definitely made a good impression. Plus, a positive vibe is contagious; bring that energy into the office!
Introduce Yourself
Sometimes we feel out of place as the “new person” at an organization. But imagine everyone else was new at some point just like you!?
Take initiative and go around introducing yourself.
Be a little bit outgoing, share something about yourself, and express how you look forward to working with them.
In addition to that, say hello whenever you come across a new face – in the kitchen, before a meeting, as you take your lunch, etc.
Take advantage of office networking or social events. Trust me, building connections will make a huge difference in your career.
Take Initiative
In the first few days at your new workplace, you will most likely be given small doses of work to get your feet wet without making you feel overwhelmed. When you feel ready, take the first initiative to ask for more assignments. As long as you have the bandwidth to handle it, go for it!!! This will show your level of enthusiasm and skill set, convincing your colleagues that indeed you ARE the perfect fit for that position.
Minimize Using Your Phone
Resist the urge to check or use your phone during work hours, especially for unofficial matters. Sometimes it may seem to others like you are distracted or not working. But if you really have to receive an important call, excuse yourself and leave the office premises to answer. Otherwise, save your scrolling for lunchtime.
Don’t Be Afraid, Ask Questions
Ask a myriad of questions – that’s how you’ll acquire the necessary knowledge and/or skills needed at your new job because sometimes your colleagues might have left some critical information out during the induction. Also, asking questions shows you are eager to learn and perform your job well.
Now that you have a few tips in the bag, GO FORTH AND PROSPER!
And remember, DO IT UNAFRAID!
