Starting a new job can be stomach-churning, nerve-wracking, sleep-inducing and incredibly exciting. Or it can be all four and more.  A successful first day doesn’t just occur naturally; it happens because new workers take time to prepare before they begin and then remain engaged once they arrive. Here’s a breakdown of the dos and don’ts to help new workers make a great first impression.

Do prepare ahead of time/Don’t think you can wing it

Preparing the night before is one of the best ways to start your first day right. Make sure you know how you’re going to get to work, what you’re going to wear and what you’re going to bring. Also, don’t forget to review any materials provided by the company.

Thinking you can go in and rely on your wit and jovial nature to get you through Day One could be a big mistake. At the very least, it could lead to a stressful morning.

Do arrive early/Don’t be late

Seems simple, right? You’d be surprised. By arriving 10-15 minutes early, you’re showing your new coworkers that you’re not only punctual, you’re excited about your new role. It gives you time to settle in, take a breath and mentally prepare for the day ahead.

Showing up late on your first day? Ugh. Your tardiness can signal a lack of commitment and poor time management skills. If you’re late, you may start your day feeling flustered and embarrassed, which could impact your performance and affect your interactions with your new colleagues.

Do soak it all in/Don’t be dismissive

Although you may want to prove your worth on your first day, it’s extremely important to soak in as much information as possible. Pay attention, take notes, ask thoughtful questions and try to assess the company culture and team dynamics.

Jumping in too soon without understanding the context can backfire. You’ll get some eye rolls from seasoned employees, but you also could set a tone that says “I already know,” instead of “I’m open to learning more.”

Do be friendly/Don’t be standoffish

You can start building relationships with your colleagues on your first day, especially if they provide you with an outlet to get to know others. Joining others for lunch or for a cup of coffee can help you connect with others on a personal level. Be approachable and show interest in your coworkers.

If you isolate yourself on your first day, you may seem aloof or worse, uninterested. Skipping social interactions on your first day or first week, like lunch with colleagues, is a missed opportunity to get to know others, find commonalities with your new peers, establish rapport and become part of the team.

Do show appreciation

When the day is finished, before people head home, take a quick moment to thank your manager and colleagues for their warm welcome – even if it’s lukewarm, at best – and their support. No, you won’t seem like a suck-up. If anything, you’ll seem like a conscientious and tuned-in new coworker.

People notice what you say and how you act, and those assessments – whether fair or not – will contribute to the impression you leave on your first day.

Tribune News Service