Congratulations!!! You have won a coveted job over hundreds of other applicants! As the chosen one, it is important to remember that first impressions go far beyond your interview. The need to impress your future supervisor and company executives does not end when you shake hands to leave the interview room. The impressions made on the first day can either make or break a successful career. Once you have been offered and accepted a job, it is time to step up your game.

Dress the part from day one. Office attire is one of the most important aspects of the office environment that you probably noticed when you arrived for the interview. You may have even asked about the company dress policy. It is important that you exercise caution. You do not want to get too comfortable, too fast. Some companies will make an introductory call to you prior to your start date to go over the first day particulars regarding where and when to report. If you have the opportunity, be sure to ask what the dress policy is. If in doubt, it is always best to be over dressed rather then under. Wear a nice shirt under your suit jacket. This will allow you to be able to take off your jacket if the environment warrants it.

Make sure you arrive on time, or slightly early on your first day. This is an excellent chance to give your best impression. I’m reminded of Sharon, a secretary that I recently terminated during her probationary period. Sharon was a part time employee who was hired to work afternoons. On her first day of work, she called out due to personal reasons. It was even more noticeable because the office staff had placed welcome balloons at her work station. This first day set the pattern for the remainder of her time with the company. She was eventually released due to excessive absenteeism.

Walk into the office knowing something about the company. Hopefully you studied some information about the company prior to your interview. Now that you are actually on board, it is time to learn more. It is important that everyone in the company have an awareness of not only the company’s products or services, but an idea of the company’s vision, mission and goals. This is not the same as learning your job duties; this is learning the foundation on which your job will be built.

Starting a new job is just like starting on the first day of school. There is so much to learn with little time to learn it. You are inundated with decisions about benefits and reams of paper to fill out. It is no wonder that starting a new job is nerve racking at best. Making a good impression on your first day will give you a firm foundation with which to build your new career.