5 Tips for Making a Great First Impression as a Young Professional
The offer letter is signed, and the start date is set. You’re excited to start your new job, and get a head start in your career field. While this time is absolutely a time to pause and celebrate this milestone, the work is just beginning for your career.
Those first weeks and months at your new job not only set the tone for your current position, but also establishes the trajectory of your success in your career. To assist in maneuvering those first 90 days, below are five recommendations to assure your first days on the job paves the way for your long-term success.
- Know your workspace.
Before taking off into the work that lies ahead, first get acquainted with the environment you will be working in. Most first day orientations will include a tour of the office and facility, introducing you to where things are and the departments and people you will be interacting with. Knowing your workspace will not only make you feel more comfortable but will also streamline your work as you know where to go to get things done.
2. Identify the star performers.
Having met the team, take note of the top performers in the office. Take note particularly of the top performers in your department and observe their behaviors that make them the best at what they do. Most job orientations will provide the guide for work success but seeing the practical application of that information will aid you in becoming a top performer yourself. Gravitate towards these employees, model their processes, and don’t be afraid to…
3. Ask questions.
Being brand new to your position and to the company, it is okay to not have all the answers. The quickest way to get up to speed, however, is asking questions to find those answers you need. Asking questions will also show you are actively engaged in the training process and will reflect positively to those around you.
4. Raise your hand.
Expanding upon asking questions, an additional way to show engagement and get up to speed quickly is to take on additional tasks. This could include joining a team or committee within your organization, or simply some side tasks to show you are ready and willing to go that extra mile.
5. Ask for feedback.
The learning and growth should not end with the conclusion of your initial training period. Be sure to follow up consistently with your Manager and fellow employees for ways to continually improve your performance and debrief any challenges or struggles you are facing to troubleshoot solutions.
