Podcast Episode 6- Making positive first impressions at a new job
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When evaluating our feelings about people, we all take shortcuts. First impressions are usually made within the first 10 seconds of meeting someone and can often turn into long term perceptions and reputations. During your first few months on a new job you will be making many first impressions with everyone yuo meet. I have put together a good list that will help to ensure that you are making the right first impressions!
Have a positive attitude
Nothing makes people like and trust you more than a positive attitude. Let your enthusiasm for your new job and being part of a new team shine through in all interactions.
Dress professionally
You should dress professionally in the beginning of your new job even during dress down or casual days. You never know when you will get that first chance to meet the CEO or high level executives. You sould always speak louder than your clothes and accessories.
Learn coworkers names quickly
Remember the names of those to whom you are introduced. In your first few days you wll be introduced to dozens of new co-workers. When you get back to your desk, jot down the names and if you forget a name, dont be afriad to ask someone for their name again. Always remember the names of your managers!
Ask questions
Its better to ask questions before you dedicate time to doing something incorrectly. Dont try to change the world before you know the way to the restroom. Your first task on a new job is to gain an understanding of the way things are done in your new company. Take the time to understand your company’s benefits plan. Dont wait until you needt o use one of the benefits before you understand them.
Go to all orientations that are provided
Take time to research everything you can and become an expert no your company and your position. You will only be able to do this by taking advantage of all orientation opportunities that a company provides.
Take initiative
Your first days on the job will be filled with sall tasks so when you need more work or are ready to take on larger responsibilities, ask. Smaller ideas are easy to fulfill and will help build your coworkers trust of your ideas and work ethic. Tka eon one of those projects that everyone has been trying to get done for months but just havent had the time, like reorganizing the database.
Work full days
Be the first person to say hello to everyone in the office and say it with a smile. Be a morning person and awlays be on time or early. During your first few months your attendance record will help to build your reputation for reliability, trust and confidence.
Avoid office politics
You will be guilty if you attach yourself to the office gossip or slacker. Make sure, during your first few weeks, to be cordial to everyone you meet. Take some time to realize who the hard workers are, those with good reputations and relationships in the organization and they are those that you should ask for advice, mentorship, etc. Keep your ear to the grapevine but dont contribute to it. It might help to give you ideas on what is praised and what is punished within an organization, but take it for what it is worth: gossip!
Take 20% and listen 80%. Avoid those who talk 100%. It is your job to find out the nuances of your compnay, the unwritten rules and norms of the office and you have to listen to others to do this.
Track accomplishments
It is up to you to track your accomplishments and let your boss know about waht you are doing on a regular basis. Dont expect accolades if you are not promoting yourself, your work, and letting people know what you are doing.
Remember, your first job can create a lot of anxieties but it is important that you understand what your employer is expecting of you. Ask enough questions to have a solid understanding of your responsibilities.
Tags: first impressions, office politics, Podcasts
Jena joined the CSPD as the Assistant Director of Recruitment and Professional Development with over 4 years career services experience including a background in corporate recruiting. She is excited to work collaboratively with the Fox School students regarding career search strategies and hopes students gain some additional insight into the job search through “Opportunity Knocks”.
Kel is an undergrad majoring in Management Information Systems, graduating in 2010. He is very involved and hopes to share some of his experiences with other students. His goal is to motivate others to do their best. He believes that with a little inspiration you can get where you want to be. Through this blog, he wants to show you that opportunities are out there.