Is there anything more nerve wracking than the first days in a new job? Sure, sleeping on a bed of nails or walking through five miles of broken glass might be more painful, but not by much.

In order to insure success in a new venture, the first days and the impression you create is paramount. It's an audition, and you want to show your new employers you are the pick of the litter.

Arrive for your shift on time. "On time" here means ten to fifteen minutes early. You'll need to familiarize yourself with the clock-in procedures and where everything is. Dress appropriately, be it in uniform or business casual, right down to the name tag.

Pay attention and take notes. This shows you're serious about the job and you want to learn. No matter how good you think you are, no one knows all the ins and outs of a job they haven't done, and everyone does it different. If you take notes, you have documentation of how you were trained, should there be any questions later. "CYA" is never a bad thing.

Look your trainer in the eye when they speak to you. Ask questions if you don't understand, or if you feel something needs clarification. The only stupid question is the one not asked.

Be respectful and professional. There's no need, in your first few days, to confide to your trainer about the wild party weekend you had or that you think your boyfriend is cheating on you. Beware of making inappropriate comments or remarks, even if others do. You're probably on a probation period, and you don't want to give any reason for an early dismissal because of the off-color joke you heard at the bar last night.

Continue your excellent time sense and extend it toward lunch and breaks. If it's a ten minute break, be back in eight. If it's an hour lunch, be back in fifty-five minutes.

Be adaptable and flexible within the parameters of the job. Know your limits and communicate them to your employer. The fewer misunderstandings, the smoother the transition into your new workplace. A good impression made in the first few days can make all the difference in determining success in the future.

Learn more about this author, Annetta Ribken.
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