If you have recently graduated (or will be shortly) and you are lucky enough to have a job offer lined up chances are you’ll be thinking about how best to impress in your new role. See our tips below:
Make a good first impression
Give yourself the best start in your new role by making an excellent first impression. Make sure you arrive early to work and don’t be the first to leave! Take note of the office dress code; if it’s your first day and you are not sure what to wear check first with the HR team or your new manager. If in doubt dress smartly!
Prepare before you start by checking with your new manager if there’s anything you need to read up on. It may have been a while since your interview so keep up to date with industry news and what’s happening with the organisation by reading relevant news articles and following them on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Check the basics for your first day in advance eg. what time your manager would like you to arrive and what documents you need to bring (for example your passport).
Make an effort to introduce yourself to your new colleagues and be friendly and positive. You want colleagues to think you are a nice person to have around the office! Every office is different so take note of office etiquette around use of headphones, IT, mobile ‘phones and eating in the office. Manage your online brand and take care with anything you are posting on social media.
In induction meetings take notes; your first week can be information overload so if you take notes you’ll be able to go back to them later.
Be realistic about what you can achieve
When taking on work be realistic about how much you can do in the given time. You don’t want to over-promise and under-deliver. Perhaps give yourself a bit of extra time if you are not sure about how long the work is likely to take. Give people a clear idea of when they can expect a piece of work from you and then ensure you deliver by that deadline or preferably, earlier.
Network
Take the opportunity to socialise with colleagues where possible to develop these relationships. However, take care when alcohol is involved! Where possible get to know staff in other departments so you can get a well-rounded view of the organisation.
Volunteer
Be proactive and offer to take on new projects. This will develop your skills and experience! Don’t wait to be asked to do work; anticipate what is needed and get it done!
Be organised
Being organised will make you seem conscientious and competent. Make project plans, to-do lists and have an organised email inbox with files so you can find the information you need quickly and easily. Make sure you keep colleagues updated with your progress on projects. When writing emails or reports ensure you write concisely and carefully.
Be a thoughtful, courteous colleague
As well as being a friendly person to have around the office show you are thoughtful and motivated by sharing any useful articles or content amongst your team. Always remember to thank people that have helped you with your work. Do not undermine or challenge colleagues in public. If you need to have difficult conversations do so as soon as possible and in private.
Good luck in your new job and don’t forget you can use LSE Careers for up to five years after you graduate.
