So, you’ve started a new role and want to impress your employer. There’s a lot of truth in the saying ‘first impressions count’, so how can you make sure you make a good one? We’ve got some tips to get you started off on the right foot.
Be on time
It’s easy to slip into the habit of sneaking into work just a little bit late, but that kind of thing is noticeable- especially when you’re the newbie in the office.
It might seem trivial, but making an impression as someone who is punctual is important for a number of reasons. Being punctual shows respect, that you take your work seriously, and sets you up for a reputation as someone that is organised and good at managing their time. All of these things have a part to play when you’re being considered for more responsibility or even a promotion somewhere down the track.
Making a conscious effort to wake up a little earlier to give yourself the time you need to get sorted so you can head out the door on time is important. The little things matter, so pay attention to how you show up in the workplace- your employer and peers will, too.
Get to know your team
Outside of your ability to fulfill the responsibilities of your role, employers are also looking to see if you are a good fit for the team, culture and organisation. To show that you are, spend a bit of time getting to know and building relationships with your team members.
Not only does having great relationships with your co-workers make your time spent at work more enjoyable, but there are also other benefits that have been linked to person-organisation fit. These are related to cultural fit that benefit both you and your employer, including:
- More efficient collaboration amongst team members
- Increased levels of engagement
- Higher quality work
On the flip side, poor relationships and lacking person-organisation fit have been linked to low team morale, motivation and productivity. Showing that you are a good match for your team is a great look for you, and a relief for your hiring manager; especially if they can see that productivity has increased within the team since your arrival.
Learn, learn, learn
Having a willing and open attitude toward learning new skills, software and ways of working will show your employer that you are adaptable and flexible- great qualities to have in today’s rapidly changing environment.
Your attitude in the first few months will set the tone for the rest of your employment. Employers want to see someone that approaches the unfamiliar with a ‘can-do’ attitude; someone that says “I’ve never done this before, but I’m happy to learn- is there anyone in the team that can teach me?” instead of passing off challenges to others. Work on learning new skills and taking on as many challenges as possible. In doing this, you’ll impress your employer while also upskilling yourself for other roles throughout your career.
Understanding what employers are looking for can be a powerful tool for making a great impression and building positive relationships. Work on getting into the habit of incorporating these things into your daily work life and you’ll not only impress your boss but also set yourself up for success in the future.