How to Make a Good Impression on Your First Day at a New Job

Starting a new job can evoke different emotions. On one hand, you're excited to start a new career. On the other hand, you might doubt your ability to handle the responsibilities. Whatever your mindset, put aside worries. It's normal to feel a little anxious. Instead, focus on how to make a good impression.

Here are a few "first day" job tips...

1. Be Personable: The first day is usually filled with butterfly stomachs and nervous energy. Even if you are a timid person, greet your co-workers warmly and offer a smile. Your first day may be packed with training sessions, which leaves little time for socializing. Nonetheless, whenever you meet a new person, be pleasant and friendly. A bad first impression may leave a bad taste in your co-worker's mouth, and make you the office outcast.

2. Don't Be Late: Arriving late on your first day of work is a huge mistake. Don't give off the impression that you're a slacker, or make the new boss question the decision to hire you. If your workday starts at 8:30, arrive no later than 8:20. This gives you enough time to get a cup of coffee and mingle a little.

3. Follow the Dress Code: Some people have their own unique style of dress, which may include tennis shoes with suits or fishnet pantyhose. The workplace is not the setting to express your individuality. During the interview, observe the office dress code. Do the employees wear business suits, or is the dress business casual (slacks, polo shirts, etc.)?

Once you've been hired for a position, inquire about the office dress policy. Nonetheless, it doesn't hurt to arrive on the first day a little over-dressed.

4. Ask Questions: If you don't understand a task or procedure, ask questions. Some new employees are afraid to ask questions. Because the trainer is very familiar with a particular task, he or she may quickly breeze through the training information and inadvertently omit an important detail. When something doesn't seem clear, ask for clarification.

5. Stay Away from Gossip Crowds: Every office has at least one troublemaker or gossip person. These are the individuals who can't be trusted, and they like to gossip behind everyone's back. New co-workers are vulnerable, and the gossiper may try to lure them, or offer a little background information on each employee. Be friendly, but don't get caught up in office hearsay.