Starting a New Job

Remember - First Impressions Count...

We mentioned "First Impressions" in our Interview Tips section - the same applies on your first day at work...They are made by and make an impact on everyone you meet. Research shows that snap decisions are made in the first few minutes of meeting someone - ensure decisions made about you by your new work mates are positive:

• Be prepared - Arrive early on your first day - but not too early. Get your bearings and find out the essentials - Where are the washrooms, where are the main doors in and out and what are the emergency procedures

• Be polite and friendly - You will be introduced to a lot of people, be nice to everyone you meet (not just the Boss!) and don't worry if you can't remember peoples names - everyone feels the same when they start a new role

• Be confident - You're now one of the team so introduce yourself to people - Don't worry too much if some people don't make an effort to introduce themselves to you - people are normally busy at work

• Be flexible - Be prepared to get involved in projects or activities, even if they were not discussed at interview. Also be prepared to put a few extra hours in at the start - researching the real job once you're in it will get you ahead of the game while showing commitment and enthusiasm. It will balance out in the longer term

• Be careful - Work can be like school sometimes, there may be bullies, there may be gangs and there will definitely be a joker! Try not to get involved in the politics of work in your first few weeks - you don't want a bad reputation before people get to know you

• Get to know people - Establish friends quickly by going to lunch together or meeting for drinks after work. This will help you to fit in - but remember not to get drunk or join any negative gossip. Be polite and make your own opinions in time

• Get stuck in - Try and get into the job quickly, be busy and look busy. If you feel you don't have enough to do, ask for something more or offer your colleagues some help - it's the quickest way to learn

• Get on with it - When you get into the job you'll find not everything smells of roses - we all come across the brown stuff too. Issues and difficulties are known as "Learning Opportunities" at Apprentice Zone. Look for the opportunities in a negative experience and you'll go far!!! Moan about the brown stuff and you won't!!!

Induction Programmes...

Most good companies provide some form of induction programme to help new employees get to grips with their new role and the company they have joined. If the company you're joining has not invited to you to anything like this, don't be afraid to ask if there is one. This shows real thought and initiative and may be a prompt they need to get something sorted out.

Good Luck in the New Job!!!