Starting a new job? Here’s how to make a great first impression

When you’re starting a new role, it’s totally normal to feel some nerves. But it’s also incredibly exciting! There are plenty of ways you can make a great first impression and hit the ground running.?

When I joined Stream Consulting, I knew I could lean on my skills, industry experience and passion for helping people. But combining this with a few action steps, from the time I signed my contract to my first week on the job, made all the difference in setting me up for success.?

If you’re starting a new role, here are some tips that can help you build your confidence and make a great first impression.?

Step 1: After signing your contract?

This is the time to get personally and mentally prepared.?

Can you connect with people in advance? Connecting with your supervisor, team members and other colleagues on LinkedIn can help you start to build meaningful work relationships. Before I began my new role, I was lucky to have a friend in the business – it really helped being able to talk to them prior to my first day. If you know someone, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions.?

Do you know what’s going on in the company and wider industry? Doing some research in advance can help you build a good foundation of knowledge and bolster your confidence.?

Talk to your key contact to confirm what time and where you need to arrive. For example, if you’re starting at a new construction site, check which gate or location you’ll be meeting them.??

Most importantly, enjoy the excitement! Starting a new role, receiving training and meeting new people is an opportunity that only happens once every so often. So take it all in.?

Step 2: Preparing for your first day?

Do you have to travel to an office or work onsite? Whether you’re driving or using public transport, map out your journey and determine the best route. I actually did a practice run a few days before starting my new role.?

You might also like to plan your outfits or uniform for the first week. For some people, a new job is a special occasion to buy a fresh outfit. For others, you might have something on hand already. It doesn’t matter – as long as it’s something you feel comfortable and confident in.?

Prepare meals, snacks and drinks, and pack anything else you think you might need. For me, that’s a handy notebook to write training notes, and a water bottle to stay hydrated.?

Step 3: Starting your first day?

It’s time to make that great first impression!?

Meet and talk to as many people as you can. I like to ask people questions about their experiences in the business, and get to know them on a personal level too.

Simple things like open body language, good posture, smiling and looking people in the eye can really make your first impression count. Silencing your phone and putting it away will minimise distractions and help you be present in your conversations.?

Of course, be prepared for plenty of administration on your first day. You’ll probably find after accessing new systems and organising logins, the day will fly by pretty quickly!?

As you start to settle into your new role, communicate regularly with your supervisor and establish a plan. Understand what you need to achieve in your first week and incorporate all the things you learned during training.?

If you can, schedule plenty of downtime outside of work to absorb and process what you’ve learned. I found minimising social engagements on the weekends was a big help and allowed me to keep a clear head.?

I hope these tips give you the confidence you need to make a great first impression at work. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, avoid putting too much pressure on yourself and enjoy the journey.?

If you’re a candidate looking for a new role in the Civil Construction sector, feel free to reach out to me. As a Senior Recruitment Specialist , I’d love to help you find an opportunity you’ll love.??

[email protected] - 0414 274 001