You are an employer’s brand-new asset and their expectations of what you’ll bring to the company are set very high from day one. New bosses and employees will learn a ton about you during those first few weeks on the job and ultimately decide if you are the right guy or girl for the job. Pressure to perform is anticipated and expected.
Auto Care Careers has put together some tips below to help you secure a good, lasting impression with your new employer.
Dress professionally, but adapt to your surroundings.
You already know that you have one chance to make a good first impression. Observe the company’s culture during your first few weeks on the job and take note of what people wear to work (and how they wear it, such as shirts tucked in), when they take a break and how they wrap up the end of the day. Try to adapt to your new atmosphere so you can fit in as soon as possible.
Arrive on time and work a full day.
Learn how long it will actually take you to get to work during morning rush hour instead of guessing on the first day. Plan to walk in the door at least 10 minutes early. Stay the full day and ask up front about lunch and breaks so you know how long you have.
Learn co-worker names quickly.
The first few weeks on a new job is not the time to be timid. Even if you are an introvert, don’t wait to be approached to interact with colleagues. Work on building relationships early. Network with your new co-workers. If asked out for lunch, go.
Limit personal tasks during work hours.
The majority of the workforce in the U.S. admits to being distracted with personal tasks during the work day, but as a brand-new employee, this is a big no-no. Put the phone away, turn off the ringer and alerts and don’t even think about texting or checking social media updates while you are on the clock. Save personal stuff for breaks if you want to make a good first impression.
Take notes, ask questions; but don’t rock the boat.
You want to try to align yourself with your boss’ expectations and goals. Make sure you understand what is expected of you and show initiative in what you are doing. Learn processes and procedures fully before you suggest changes.
It is OK to make mistakes.
You are new and just learning. Own up to an error immediately, ask questions and don’t let it happen again. Honesty is the best policy.
For more information on how to take the next step in your career, visit
autocarecareers.org.
