Starting a new role is an exciting time but it can also be daunting, especially with new surroundings, colleagues and duties to get used to.

Your probationary period will always be a time of adjustment but it’s also a period where you should focus on giving yourself the best possible start in your new role which will put you in good stead for years to come.

Follow Webrecruit’s top 10 tips to help you make a great first impression in your new job:

 

1. Talk to people

Be friendly and get to know your new colleagues. Smile at everyone and take a genuine interest in their roles within the business. This shows that you’re personable, keen to develop working relationships and people will be more likely to warm to you.

 

2. Absorb as much information as you can

During your first few weeks in a new company, you’ll likely have a lot of information thrown at you. Don’t worry if you can’t remember everything; you’re only human after all!

However, you should try and absorb as much of the important information as quickly as possible. If it helps you, make clear notes and ensure that you read back over your notes at the end of each day so things stick.

 

3. Ask questions

You should aim to ask as many questions as possible in the first few weeks in your new role. This is your learning and adjustment period so it’s important to get all the information you’re going to need to succeed.

Asking questions shows that you’re engaged, interested and eager to learn more about the business.

 

4. Be punctual

It goes without saying that you should show up on time for work but you should make an extra effort to be punctual during your probationary period. Showing up late repeatedly is disrespectful and sets a precedent for future punctuality.

Equally, try not to be the first to leap out of your seat everyday as soon as the clock strikes home time.

 

5. Be positive

Approach your work with a positive, ‘can do’ attitude. Try not to make negative comments about anything associated with your role, even if you hear your colleagues complaining. Don’t be tempted to join in while you’re still on probation.

 

6. Participate

If there are any company socials or events happening within your first few months of working at the business, make an effort to attend them, even if they’re not usually your kind of thing. It’s a good chance to get to know people and shows that you’re enthusiastic.

Additionally, if there are any internal initiatives happening in your office, try your best to participate; integrating yourself with the team is important.

 

7. Make yourself presentable

Even if your new office adopts a casual dress code, it’s probably a bad idea to rock up in ripped jeans or trackies on your first day. Looking clean and presentable creates a good impression and indicates that you take your work seriously.

 

8. Make suggestions – but don’t criticise

In the first few months of your role, you might notice things that you don’t agree with – whether it’s a particular process or the working style of one of your colleagues. Your first instinct might be to raise this with management but beware of being too critical; you risk alienating people who have potentially worked at the business for years.

To avoid being perceived as disruptive, keep all suggestions general and positive.

 

9. Ask for feedback

Although you’ll likely have regular appraisals during your probationary period, asking for feedback from your manager shows that you care about how you’re performing and that you want to improve.

 

10. Be present

Don’t spend a lot of time away from your desk or being distracted during your first few weeks in your new role – it doesn’t look great if every time you’re needed for something, you’re roaming around the office having a chat.