by Vilie Farah

Created on: February 18, 2010   Last Updated: April 12, 2010

First impressions can sometimes provide significant information when someone is shaping an opinion about an unknown individual. Every little details is important when you are trying to impress someone for the first time. Your attitude, your clothes, the manner in which you enter the room and your hairstyle should be all carefully selected to make a great first impression.

An excellent first impression will be to your benefit when searching for a new job or when starting work at a new office. Getting colleagues to like you facilitates the work process and allows you to become part of the team more rapidly. It is natural to feel worried and excited when starting a new job or when coming under the scrutiny of a potential employer. Try to contain your anxiety and follow some simple tips to make a great first impression.

* Be on time *
Never arrive late for your first day at a new job or for a job interview. Being tardy reveals sloppiness and laziness, even if it happened regardless of your efforts. Nobody should be forced to wait for you, especially if that person is an interviewer or a new coworker.

Plan your trip, learn carefully where you have to go and how long will it take you to get there. Leave at least 15 minutes earlier than needed. It will be better to arrive early and wait some time.

* Dress appropriately *
The manner in which you dress plays major role in affecting others, especially in affecting people that do not know you. When you have to attend a job interview or your first day at a new job, think carefully about your clothing selection.

Research the company and its dress code. Some companies require more official outfits, while others prefer their employees to feel comfortable in their own skin.

Wearing jeans if everyone else is in a suit will reflect poorly on your first day performance. The same will happen if you appear in a suit while your coworkers are walking around the office in flip-flops. You need to blend in.

Pure psychology is at play here. People have difficulties accepting someone who looks different from the group. The trick is to resemble your colleagues as much as possible.

* Listen carefully and show interest *
Being an active listener is an important part of making a good first impression. Showing interest and listening is nearly as important as talking about yourself.

Try to show interest in everything that is being said, even if you feel puzzled.

When introduced to new colleagues, inquire about their occupation and duties. Pay careful attention

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