New on The Job? 5 Strategies to Make a Great First Impression

Changing jobs can be a welcome and exciting transition, but it can be a stressful time as well. A year ago, I had the opportunity to step into a newly created position – becoming Director of Professional Enrichment for the Indiana University Alumni Association – experiencing, once again, what it’s like to be “the new girl” in the office. While I was thrilled to be starting this job, I will admit that I was feeling butterflies at the thought of being in a new work environment again.

A year into the job, I can say it’s been a positive time of growth and new challenge – made smoother thanks, in part, to the transitioning strategies I used to help me get acclimated. If you’ve recently started a new job, or anticipate that you’ll be in a new position at some point down the line, I hope these strategies can be helpful to you as well:

#1 – Be an Active Listener

It’s important, especially for new employees, to listen a lot. As a newbie, it’s a good idea to keep your opinions to yourself—unless asked—and, in general, lay low until you get to know your fellow employees and they get to know you. Earning the trust and respect of your new team can take time, so you want to avoid coming across as overly aggressive.

#2 – Get To Know People By Name

Remembering names of your new teammates can go a long way in helping to make a good first impression and get your working relationships off to a solid start. I recommend taking notes to remind you of who’s who and, if you get stuck, you can always say, “Please help me remember your name,” when necessary. Addressing people by name, early on, helps you engage more quickly with new workmates, and shows that you’re making a concerted effort to get to know them.

#3 – Learn the Landscape

The organizational chart from Human Resources is a good point of departure to understand who reports to whom. This will help you avoid stepping on anyone’s toes by inadvertently going over someone’s head. Knowing where to go to get help is also essential – so don’t be afraid to ask questions.

#4 – Play Well With Others

It’s important to be easy-to-get-along-with and a responsible teammate right out the gate in a new position. Authenticity is key, so honor your personality and bring your most positive energy to the table. Greeting people professionally – making eye contact and offering a smile or a firm handshake when appropriate – helps you put your best foot forward.

#5 – Teach People How to Treat You

The beginning of a new job is a great opportunity to help others understand your work and communication styles. Establishing your work ethic, boundaries, and the type of learner you are is key at the get-go, so be cognizant of the professional persona and expectations you’re creating for yourself. You want to create realistic and sustainable work practices that honor you as well as your new organization.

While the first year in a job can be a big adjustment, keeping the above strategies in mind can help you navigate being “the new girl” with more savvy and ease. Applying the five strategies can help you settle in and lay a solid foundation for the new challenges and career adventures ahead.