Make a Great First Impression on Your First Day of Work

Arkansas Hiring and Employment trends in 2021

You nailed your interview and found employment in Central Arkansas with the help of Apex Staffing. But you are not finished making a good first impression. With the following tips, you can prepare to make a great impression on your first day at your new office job in Central Arkansas.

After finding employment in Central Arkansas, what you do each day will affect how future opportunities at your new job will present themselves to you. Yes, every single day on the job counts, but on your first exciting and potentially nerve-wracking day, all eyes will be on you. The performance and attitude you display at the beginning of your job can have a huge effect on your future, as the first days establish your employment trajectory. Consider these five steps to make a great first impression.

1. Arrive early, stay late

A timely arrival shows that you are organized, value your work, and are considerate of your co-worker’s time. It is vital not to arrive too early, as this may make your new employer feel rushed to get started on training. By arriving just a few minutes early, you avoid the stress of running late and provides you an opportunity to settle in before you begin the frenzy of meeting new coworkers, learning your new workplace, and training on your new office job. Additionally, be aware of the company culture as it relates to the workday. When do people typically leave? Even if the workday is advertised as 9 to 5, leaving at 5 won’t score you any points if everyone else is staying until 6.

2. Be Well-Dressed

Even if your office job in Central Arkansas has a casual dress code, try to dress a step above try to avoiding jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers. Dressing a level above general expectations shows respect, that you are serious about your new position. It is always better to be overdressed than underdressed.

3. Be Positive & Confident on Your First Day of Work

Smile even if you feel nervous. Smiling will help you appear receptive to the new people you meet. A warm expression will also help you feel more at ease, as smiling prompts the release of feel-good, calming endorphins. A slight sense of being overwhelmed on the first day of work is common when taking on the tasks that a new job requires. Take a breath, summon forth your inner confidence, you can tackle the duties of your job. Believe in yourself and your abilities. Also, do not be afraid to ask questions. Asking questions shows confidence, as well as your interest and willingness to learn your new role. It is better to ask questions early on to ensure you are doing everything correctly.

4. Be Friendly

Show genuine interest in each new co-worker you meet by asking each person a couple of questions when you are introduced. Without getting overly personal, you can ask questions like, “Where are you from?” or “How long have you worked for the company?” When introduced, also be sure to repeat the person’s name back with a friendly, “Nice to meet you, Jack. I am Jill.” This will help you remember all of these new names and faces longer than a few minutes. Expressing a genuine interest to learn from others will also put people at ease and start the work of establishing trust.

5. Offer to Help during Downtime

The first day—and the ones that follow—are often slow-moving as you get up to speed. If you ever find yourself with a lack of something to accomplished, offering to assist your co-workers will not only gain respect with you co-workers and boss but also provide an ample opportunity to learn more about your new employer. Showing initiative to grow and learn will likewise help you feel more comfortable in your new position.

Create the Best Version of Your Professional Self with a Perfect-Fit Position

An Apex Staffing professional can show you how to find a job you love with the type of positive workplace culture that encourages you to be the best employee you can.

If you’re looking for a new job, check out our Job Openings page + to see what’s available. Apex Staffing specializes in connecting talented job seekers with high-quality, local employers. Our service is completely free for job seekers and we are always accepting applications.