First of all – congratulations on finding a job you dig. Starting a new job is an exciting time! Finding your first full time job after school can be an overwhelming time so you need all the help you can get to arm yourself with the right mindset and attitude and get ready to impress.

First impressions count, of course, but keep in mind it may take a while to meet the higher ups, especially in bigger companies – so the first impression can take 60, 90 or possibly 180 days to make. Every initial exchange you have with your team, manager and other co-workers will contribute to the impression they will build of you. In smaller companies, you may feel under the microscope for the first few weeks but keep in mind that this is only temporary. Now’s the time to establish your credibility and reliability so that you can get working.

Sharpen your personal brand

Your general demeanour, your reliability, punctuality, the way you dress and your presence during meetings are all factors that shape how people regard you – your personal brand. You want to seem approachable, not stand-offish, but at the same time as someone who can buckle down and get to work. This may seem like a lot to take in, but it is all worth considering to make sure the first impression of you is positive – because it tends to stick.

Do your research

You have probably done some research prior to your interview regarding the company and you have most likely taken some notes on your new place of employment. Now is the time to use that information. Dust off your notes and revisit the questions you may have asked regarding your role as these will prepare you on your first day in and you can hit the ground running. If you have some questions, prepare them and ask your manager. This will definitely leave a positive impression of you. It shows you have initiative and that you came prepared.

Listen

Chances are that your first week will be a crash course on the company’s ins and outs – what has been done, what needs to be done and what will happen in the foreseeable future. Take notes and pay attention to what is being said. If there are procedures in place, take notes of them. Keep eye contact and reiterate what you hear so that you can summarise and make sure you’ve understood. Add remarks, where appropriate. This shows that you do not just listen but that you are also capable of taking action and are an active participant.

Introduce yourself

Keep in mind that the workplace is made of people. You also want to connect with them. Show your kind, personable side. When you’re nice to people they tend to respond positively and their impression of you will be based on a pleasant interaction. People will start to associate you with positive interactions, which is always a plus!

Take a deep breath

You already got the job! You’re in. It’s natural to feel anxious. Take deep breaths and remind yourself that you’ve got this under control. It may be exciting for you, but remind yourself that for the rest of your co-workers it’s just another day at the office. Compose yourself and gauge the company culture on your first day. Understand where your co-workers spend their lunch hour, how busy the space is, what the policies are. Watch the people as they go about their day. Be alert, but most importantly – be yourself.

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