by Chakira Ward

Created on: April 11, 2009   Last Updated: April 12, 2009

Starting a new job can be a little nerve racking, meeting new people and adjusting to a new environment can definately get those butterflies going. Along with skills and experience, your personality may have played a part in you being hired for your new position. It is important to maintain that personality and be yourself always, building new and healthy relationships with your co-workers will be much more comfortable for them as well as yourself. Listed below are a few tips to get you started.

1. Be on time. Punctuality is an extremely important factor in maintaining a job, schedules are made to be followed. Go to bed at a decent hour and make sure you are well rested, and of course, don't forget to set the alarm. Preparing for work the night before definately helps, get your shower in, pick out your clothes and iron, if you plan to bring lunch, make it the night before and refrigerate it if necessary. Have everything that you plan to use for the following day out and ready to go, shoes, jewelry, briefcase etc. This will prevent rushing and will allow you to move at a steady pace, planning and preparation is the key.

2. Dress appropriately. If your employer requires a dress code, follow it completely, the last thing you want is to be sent home to change on your first day. If you are ever feeling unsure about an outfit being appropriate, it's probably best not to wear it, your inner dress code police is telling you to choose something else.

3. Ask Questions. Never pretend to understand something during training if you are completely clueless, and don't be afraid to ask for explanations if you are confused. Showing up to work is wonderful, but showing up and doing your job correctly is much better. Keep a pen and paper handy, if you feel like you're taking in too much information, take down some notes to keep you on track. Not only will it help you, but it shows your employer that you take your job seriously and plan to deliver your best work performance.

4. Be hands on. The first few days of job training usually consists of alot of listening, and not much action. This can make a job seem much easier than it really is, however, it can also make things seem very difficult. Try not to feel intimidated, ask if you can attempt to complete a small task, being assertive but not over confident can help move along the learning process at a faster pace. The task you choose should be something you are sure you can execute, don't embarass yourself.

5. Do not leave before your job is completed. If you have a set schedule, surely your job requires you to be there on time, but leaving on time may not be much of a concern unless there is an overtime restriction. You don't want to seem like you're in a hurry to leave, and it is also common courtesy to make sure that your job is not left undone. Eventually, a routine can be developed to have everything done in a timely manner.

6. Lastly, do not engage in gossip or involve yourself in any current workplace mishaps. When you start a new job, you never know what you're walking into, there may be some unresolved issues. Sometimes, co-workers like to give the dirt to new employees, you may accidentally become involved in something you don't have anything to do with. Steer clear, change conversations, or keep a low profile.

Making a good impression on your first few days would be a plus, maintaining these tips will get you up the ladder. Always put your best foot forward, exceed expectations, set goals and strive to meet them and success is yours.

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